Radiated Tortoise

Species: Radiated Tortoise
Habitat: Dry Regions of Madagascar
Status: Critically Endangered
DAK Locale: Kidani Village

The radiated tortoise is native to the dry scrub lands and forests of southern Madagascar. It is found in other parts of the island but not nearly in the same numbers. Its also been introduced to some other nearby islands. One of the favorite meals is the cacti species that grow in the area but they will also eat fruits.

The tortoise has a distinctive carapace with brilliantly marked yellow lines. The yellow lines seem to "radiate" from the center of each plate of the shell, hence the name. There is sexual dimorphism as the males have longer tails and a more notable notch beneath the tail, as well.

Thanks to habitat loss this animal is critically endangered. The pet trade and even hunting for food have not helped the matter. It is strictly protected but laws are not easily upheld as the country is quite poor. The radiated tortoise is part of an SSP (Species Survival Program) as zoos from this country including the Animal Kingdom, are doing their best to encourage a captive breeding program to keep the animal from extinction.