Kinixys natalensis (Natal Hinge-back Tortoise)

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Home > Turtle Database > Kinixys natalensis (Natal Hinge-back Tortoise)

Credit: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Natal_hinge-back_tortoise

The Natal Hinge-back Tortoise (Kinixys natalensis) is a small to medium-sized tortoise species native to southern Africa. Recognized for the unique hinged section at the rear of its carapace, this tortoise can protect itself by closing its shell when threatened, a distinctive feature among tortoises.

Native To These Regions

Eastern Cape (South Africa), KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa), Limpopo (South Africa), Mpumalanga (South Africa)

Native Turtle Species Map – Find Turtles by Region

Scientific Classification

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Reptilia
  • Order: Testudines
  • Family: Testudinidae
  • Genus: Kinixys
  • Species: Kinixys natalensis

Common Names

  • Natal Hinge-back Tortoise
  • Natal Hinge Tortoise
  • Natal Hinge-back

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Identification

Description

The Natal Hinge-back Tortoise has an elongated, domed carapace that is typically brown to dark brown with subtle patterning. A unique characteristic is the hinged section at the rear of the carapace, allowing the tortoise to close off the back of its shell for protection. The plastron (underside) is lighter in color, and the skin is usually a dull gray or brown.

Sexual Dimorphism

  • Males: Generally smaller with a more concave plastron, aiding in mating. They possess longer, thicker tails.
  • Females: Larger in size with a flatter plastron and shorter tails.

Check more turtles from the Kinixys genus

Kinixys zombensis (Eastern Hinged-Back Tortoise)

Kinixys spekii (Speke’s Hinge-back Tortoise)

Kinixys nogueyi (Western Hinge-back Tortoise)

Native Origin and Distribution

Geographical Range

The species is indigenous to southern Africa, predominantly found in South Africa, Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), and parts of Mozambique.

Preferred Habitat

Natal Hinge-back Tortoises inhabit savannas, woodlands, and grasslands. They prefer areas with sandy soils and dense vegetation, which provide cover and foraging opportunities.

Behavior

Feeding Habits

They are omnivorous, feeding on a variety of vegetation, fruits, fungi, and occasionally invertebrates like insects and worms.

Predators

Natural predators include birds of prey, mongoose, and other small mammals. Human activities also pose significant threats.

Reproduction

Breeding Season

Breeding typically occurs during the rainy season, aligning with spring and summer months in their native range.

Reproductive Method

  • Oviparous: Females lay clutches of 1-4 eggs.
  • Eggs are deposited in nests dug into sandy soil.
  • Incubation periods can vary but generally last several months.

Conservation

Extinction Status

The Natal Hinge-back Tortoise is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

Threats

  • Habitat Loss: Due to agriculture, urban development, and deforestation.
  • Illegal Pet Trade: Capturing wild individuals for sale.
  • Road Mortality: Being run over by vehicles.

Conservation Measures

  • Legal Protection: Protected under national laws in their native countries.
  • Habitat Conservation: Efforts to preserve and restore natural habitats.
  • Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about the species and its plight.

Economic Importance

  • Pet Trade: While illegal, they are sometimes collected for the exotic pet market.
  • Ecotourism: Their presence enhances biodiversity, attracting tourists and benefiting local economies.

Interesting Facts

  • The hinge mechanism of their shell is a rare adaptation, providing enhanced defense against predators.
  • They have a relatively shy and reclusive nature, often retreating into dense vegetation.
  • Their diet includes fungi, which is uncommon among tortoise species.

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.