Leopard Tortoise

Shell

The top shell of a tortoise, called a carapace, is domed and ornate with leopard-like spots. The bottom shell is called a plastron and lacks the ornate pattern.

Herbivores

This tortoise’s diet consists of a variety of grasses, forbs and succulents. The species has also been observed consuming hyena scat to possibly aid in egg formation by obtaining calcium supplementation. The leopard tortoises are also integral to seed dispersal, as undigested seeds they may consume pass through their feces.

Conservation Status

Although their populations are stable, they are faced with potential threats from the pet trade, agricultural burning techniques, bush meat and habitat destruction.