Leopard Tortoise (Stigmochelys pardalis)

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Photo by Tiz

Published on Project Noah

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-26.2077, 32.004

Field Notes

Description:

The African Leopard Tortoise typically lives 80 to 100 years and they reach sexual maturity between the ages of 12 and 15. The leopard tortoise is the fourth largest species of tortoise in the world, with typical adults reaching 18-inch (460 mm) and weighing 40-pound (18 kg).

At the third photo it is possible to see a tick infestation on the right hand side of the turtles neck.

Habitat:

On a gravel road, 400 meters away from an almost dried out waterhole. Mixed meadowland and Forest. Dry season.

Notes:

I was very happy I kept my eyes on the road instead of the terrain when driving. Since there is a lot of stones on the road it was very fortunate that I saw this little turtle. I stopped the car and went out for a photo session!

Reference Links:

Leopard tortoise

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