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Sporting a striking star-shaped pattern of yellow streaks on its high-domed shell, the radiated tortoise is considered one of the world’s most beautiful tortoises. Unfortunately, its beauty makes the tortoise a target for the pet trade, which is one of the threats it faces in the wild.

tortoise walking

Did You Know?

The radiated tortoise prefers to graze in familiar area, keeping the vegetation there well-trimmed.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Geochelone radiate

Range:
Southern Madagascar

Habitat:
Dry woodlands

Length:
Up to 1.3 ft

Lifespan:
40 to 50 yrs

Zoo Location:
Spaulding Children's Zoo

Diet:
Grass, fruit, and cactus

Risk Status:
Species at Risk (IUCN—Critically Endangered)