Information on the Leopard Tortoise

The leopard tortoise (Geochelone pardalis) is an African species that has a beautiful leopard pattern on its shell and is the fourth largest tortoise in the world. In parts of Africa, leopard tortoises are still eaten by humans. The species is not currently endangered but some populations are threatened by over-collecting and habitat loss. There are cases of leopard tortoises living for upwards of one-hundred years.

  1. Description

    • Leopard tortoises are yellow with variable black markings

      Leopard tortoises can grow to 20 inches in length and weigh up to 40 pounds, although there are giant forms in Ethiopia and Sudan that can grow to up to 45 inches long and weigh 80 pounds. The carapace is strongly domed and the scales or scutes can be pyramidal. Leopard tortoises are yellow with variable black mottles or stripes. Each individual has unique markings that are as distinctive as a fingerprint. Adult females are larger than the males.

    Range

    • This widely distributed tortoise is found all across sub-Saharan Africa from Sudan down to South Africa. It is common in reserves and game parks in East Africa and South Africa and is frequently encountered by people on safari. There are two separate subspecies, the eastern and western leopard tortoise. The western subspecies is found in South Africa, Namibia and Lesotho and the eastern from across the rest of its range.

    Habitat

    • Leopard tortoises favor open savanna and grassland habitats but can be found in scrubland and even open forest. They favor arid and semi-arid areas but are also sometimes found in wet grassland.

    Behavior

    • Like most tortoises, the leopard tortoise is solitary and wide ranging. In nature they feed mostly on dry leaves and high-fiber vegetation but will also eat fruit and flowers when available and even carrion. If disturbed, leopard tortoises will retract their head and limbs into their shells and emit a loud hissing noise. Males court females by ramming them aggressively. Mating is a protracted and vocal affair with the males making short grunting noises during coitus. Females lay up to 18 eggs in sandy soil.

    Captivity

    • The leopard tortoise is kept extensively as a pet but is a large animal with specific needs. It should be fed a high-fiber diet of coarse vegetation with little fruit and no meat. It needs a minimum nighttime temperature of 70 F and prefers dry conditions. Leopard tortoises are territorial and should be kept alone or in large enclosures with plenty of places to hide. If kept indoors, which is necessary in cool or damp climates, they require an ultraviolet lamp for light and heat. You should also provide a water container large enough for an adult tortoise to wallow in.