Adopt-a-Tortoise

Adopt-an-Animal: Radiated Tortoise

Native to the island of Madagascar, radiated tortoises have a very distinct appearance because of the uniquely pointed scutes on their domed shell. As radiated tortoises age, their shells add growth rings to their patterned scutes. Their beaks are very strong in order for them to be able to munch on their preferred plants like cactus, and tear deeply-rooted plants from the ground. While radiated tortoises do prefer warm weather and can survive long periods without water, they will burrow in the ground during the hottest times of year to escape the extreme temperatures and dehydration. Like many of the species on the island of Madagascar, radiated tortoises are critically endangered due to being poached for food, captured for tourism and pet trade, and habitat loss. 

Your Adopt-an-Animal donation will be used to support these rare reptiles and further the San Francisco Zoological Society’s mission to connect people to wildlife, inspire caring for nature, and advance conservation action. An adoption of a radiated tortoise makes a great gift for friends, coworkers, family or for yourself!

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