Photo by Autumn Shoemaker

Scientific Name: Geochelone elegans

The star pattern on the shell, while very distinct when in hand, helps obscure the shape of the tortoise when it is hiding in tall grass.

• Size: Weight: 2 to 14.5 pounds; Length: 6 to 15 inches
• Diet: Carrion, insects, leaves, fruit and flowers
• Habitat: Terrestrial areas
• Range in the Wild: Western India, Southeastern India and Sri Lanka

Conservation Status
Listed as Least Concern. 

Learn more about this animal.