Tortoises

Information about Tortoises:

Tortoises – sometimes called “land turtles” – are a family of terrestrial reptiles found in different habitats around the world, ranging from arid deserts and scrubland to dense tropical rainforests. Like turtles, tortoises are protected by a large, heavy shell. This shell is divided into two parts; the plastron which is on the underside and the carapace which is the top part. Most tortoises are diurnal or only active during the daylight hours. Like all reptiles, they are cold-blooded and cannot regulate their body temperatures. They must use the environment, either sun or shade to maintain their needed body temperature. They are reclusive animals and will avoid contact with humans and other animals if they can.

Tortoises are mostly herbivorous, feeding on grass, weeds, leafy greens, flowers and some fruits. They will also occasionally eat small invertebrates like worms or insects. Tortoises are very popular in the pet trade and thousands of people keep them as pets. This has led to their decline in some areas, and now many new and strict laws are in place to protect these the more rare and endangered animals from going extinct in the wild.