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Genus: Stigmochelys

Stigmochelys is a genus with just one species, the leopard tortoise (Stigmochelys pardalis). Scientists used to group it with some other tortoises, but now it’s in its own genus. Leopard tortoises are the fourth largest tortoise species in the world. They can grow over two feet long and weigh around 30 to 50 kg, though some get even bigger. The main thing that makes them stand out is their shell pattern. Their shells have dark spots, blotches, or lines on a lighter background, kind of like a leopard’s fur, which is where they get the name. They live in savannas and grasslands across eastern and southern Africa, where they graze on grass, leaves, and even some fruits. One more cool thing — they don’t dig burrows like some other tortoises. Instead, they rely on natural shelter like bushes or abandoned burrows from other animals when they need shade or protection.
  • Stigmochelys pardalis (Leopard Tortoise)

    Stigmochelys pardalis, known as the leopard tortoise, is a large, slow-moving tortoise species found in the grasslands and savannas of eastern and southern Africa. Its name comes from the bold, black and yellow pattern on its shell, which resembles the spots of a leopard. Scientific Classification Kingdom: AnimaliaPhylum: ChordataClass: ReptiliaOrder: TestudinesFamily: TestudinidaeGenus: StigmochelysSpecies: Stigmochelys pardalis…