Otis

Common Name: Leopard Tortoise
Scientific Name: Geochelone pardalis

Range: Sudan and Ethiopia south to Natal and Cape Province, west to Namibia and South Angola.

Habitat: Savannahs of the high plains and woodlands. Kopjes, marshes, and scrubs

Status In Wild: Not on endangered or threatened list. However due to the attractive pattern on their carapace (upper shell) their population is being threatened

Physical Characteristics: High domed and boldly patterned carapace which is hard and rigid with an average length of 24 inches. Thick club like hind Limbs that are heavily scaled with clawed feet and unwebbed toes. They can reach a length of 12 to 18 inches and weigh 15 to 20 pounds. They have a v shaped notch in front of shell. The head, limbs, and tail can be almost completely drawn under the carapace. The young have dark brown or black leopard patterns on carapace while adults have smaller spots. Head, limbs, and tail are brownish, yellow.

Reproduction: A nesting female digs a 12 inch hole with her hind feet and drops 5 to 30 white eggs at three week intervals for twenty weeks. They hatch one year later. The tortoise reaches maturity in 3 to 8 years.

Diet: Leaves, flowers, grass, and fruits. Even old bones for calcium. During the dry season, they cease to eat and enter hibernation.