Details
Stigmochelys pardalis
The leopard tortoise is a large African tortoise with a spotted, leopardlike shell. It walks through dry savannas and grasslands feeding mainly on plants.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It inhabits Afrotropical savanna and grassland. Dry open habitats with shade, shelter, and seasonal plant growth are favored.
Shell length 30-70 cm; weight 13-40 kg. A high domed shell carries black and yellow-brown patterning that varies by individual. Stout legs suit terrestrial walking.
Diurnal and solitary, it rests in cover during excessive heat or cold. Feeding occurs when temperatures are suitable.
A herbivore, it eats grasses, dry plants, flowers, and succulents. Moist plants are important in arid conditions.
Females dig nests in soil and lay eggs. Hatchlings are small and grow slowly as the shell develops.
It is listed as Least Concern. Road mortality, collection, and overgrazing can affect populations locally.
