African Spurred Tortoise

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Scientific Name: Centrochelys sulcata

DID YOU KNOW?

  • This tortoise can last for weeks without water and food, and when it finds water, it can drink as much as 15% of its own body weight. They eat Succulent for both food and the water they need.

  • African spurred tortoise are very aggressive towards each other. This aggression starts from the time they hatch. Ramming into each other and attempts to flip each other over are common behaviors by males.

EVERY SPECIES COUNT

African Spurred Tortoises face severe threats from habitat loss, illegal pet trade and human consumption.

Curious to Learn More?
Reach out to our Education Team at education@emiratespark.ae we’re happy to share more wild facts!

MY CONSERVATION STATUS
Vulnerable 60%

HOW LONG DO I LIVE?

Wild: 50-100 years
Under human care: Over 100 years

WHERE DO I LIVE?

Hot, arid Sahel region along the southern edge of the Sahara Desert.

WHAT KIND OF EATER AM I?

Herbivore

WHAT’S ON MY MENU?

Succulent, grasses, flowers, cacti and weeds.

HOW MUCH DO I WEIGH?

Up to 90 kg