Chersina angulata (Angulate tortoise)
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Chersina angulata, commonly known as the Angulate Tortoise, is a small species of tortoise native to South Africa. Recognized by its distinctive yellow-edged shell and high-domed carapace, this species thrives in arid and semi-arid regions. It is known for its territorial behaviors, especially among males.
Scientific Classification
- Kingdom: Animalia
- Phylum: Chordata
- Class: Reptilia
- Order: Testudines
- Family: Testudinidae
- Genus: Chersina
- Species: C. angulata
Common Names
- Angulate Tortoise
Identification
Description
The Angulate Tortoise has a high-domed carapace with yellow and brown markings, and a notable yellow “V” shape on the front of its shell. Adults can reach a size of up to 8-10 inches in length.
Sexual Dimorphism
Males are generally larger than females and have longer tails. They also have a concave plastron, which helps during mating.
Native Origin and Distribution
Geographical Range
Chersina angulata is native to South Africa, particularly found in the southern coastal regions, including parts of Namibia and the Western Cape.
Preferred Habitat
This species thrives in arid and semi-arid environments, often seen in shrublands, grasslands, and coastal dunes. They prefer sandy soils where they can burrow for shelter.
Behavior
Feeding Habits
Angulate tortoises are primarily herbivorous, feeding on a variety of grasses, succulents, and flowers. Occasionally, they may eat small insects or carrion.
Predators
Their main predators include birds of prey, jackals, and sometimes humans who collect them for illegal pet trade.
Reproduction
Breeding Season
Breeding typically occurs in spring and summer.
Reproductive Method
Females lay 1-3 eggs at a time in shallow nests dug into the sand. Incubation lasts several months, depending on the environmental conditions.
Conservation
Extinction Status
Chersina angulata is currently listed as Least Concern by the IUCN.
Threats
The species faces habitat destruction, predation by invasive species, and illegal collection for the pet trade.
Conservation Measures
Protected in various conservation areas in South Africa. Awareness campaigns are also in place to reduce illegal trade.
Economic Importance
Angulate tortoises are occasionally kept as pets, but their trade is often regulated to protect wild populations.
Interesting Facts
- Males engage in combat by ramming each other with the gular projection on the front of their shells.
- They are known to drink water from fog droplets, using their front limbs to collect it.
About Author
Muntaseer Rahman started keeping pet turtles back in 2013. He also owns the largest Turtle & Tortoise Facebook community in Bangladesh. These days he is mostly active on Facebook.