The Desert Tortoise (Gopherus agassizi) has a shell that is from 9 to 14 inches long. The high domed carapace has deep concentric lines with yellow or orange centers. This reptile lives in desert canyons and dry regions with little vegetation. It is a vegetarian living on desert plants that sprout up during the spring rains. During very hot, dry periods the tortoise will seek a den where it remains until more favorable conditions return.

The desert tortoise lays two to six eggs in a hole in the sand, generally in June, a few months after courtship. The spherical, white eggs are about 1-1/2 inches in diameter. The hatchlings come out in the fall.

The Giant Tortoise (Geochelone elephantopus) is best represented by those living on the Galapagos Islands off the coast of Ecuador. They reach weights of 500 pounds and have a lifespan of more than 100 years. They feed on grass and cactus. They are an endangered species.

Four of the original 15 different species of Galapagos Tortoise are now extinct due to encroachment by man and the animals that prey on the tortoise eggs. These include dogs, pigs and goats. Man also hunts these reptiles for their meat. Here is a good site for more information on this giant tortoise: http://animaldiversity.ummz.umich.edu/accounts/geochelone/g._elephantopus$narrative.html
The plush toy Galapagos Tortoise shown at top right is made by Wild Republic.

Visit some of the other desert dwellers living at Jeannie's Cottage by clicking on the links below. And thanks for visiting.

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Desert Intro
Armadillo | Desert Tortoise | Gecko | Gila Monster
Horned Lizard | Rattlesnake | Roadrunner | Tarantula

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