| Characteristics
and Behaviour |
Radiated Tortoises have
black or dark brown elongated and domed
carapace up to 40 cm long. In adult,
each scute on the carapace is raised
and well marked by concentric rings
with yellow stripes radiating from the
yellow center, for which the species
earns its common name. Radiated Tortoises
are tame, not active, rest in nest most
of the time. Adapted to dry terrestrial
environment, Radiated Tortoises prefer
warm climate and hibernate when the
temperature drops to approximately 16℃.
Females have flat plastrons, smaller
and shorter tails while males have concave
plastrons and their tails are larger
and longer. Breeding season lasts from
May to September and a clutch comprises
three to twelve eggs. |