Radiated Tortoises
Astrochelys radiata

Amongst the lush foliage, the first animals you’ll see as you stroll down the Minnesota Zoo’s Tropics Trail are radiated tortoises that are rarer than you may think.

Named for the star-shaped radiating patterns on their shells, these animals (though not to be confused with star tortoises) are solitary in the wild and can live to be over 100 years old. Radiated tortoises are native only to the dry spiny forests and brush regions of the far southern and southwestern regions of Madagascar. Nests of 3-12 eggs are laid in about seven inches of soil where they incubate, after 145-231 days, until tiny hatchlings emerge. Considered grazing herbivores, they eat grass, fruit and flowers when available, in fact, the beak-like hook on the tortoise’s mouth is ideal for biting through tough plants like invasive cacti.

Unfortunately, habitat loss, hunting for Asian food and medicine markets, and capture for the pet trade have all contributed to a reduction in the wild populations of this beautiful and critically endangered species. Luckily, there is a viable breeding program among institutions accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) along with private institutions that is working hard to keep the species from the brink of extinction. For more information on this species, visit the Turtle Survival Alliance.

Did you know?
A radiated tortoise’s shell is supplied with blood vessels and nerves – so it can feel touch.