Chelonoidis denticulatus

(Linnaeus, 1766)

Vernacular names
English : Yellow-footed tortoise
French : Tortue charbonnière à pattes jaunes

Classification
Class : Reptilia
Order : Testudines
Family : Testudinidae
Notes : No subspecies known.

Identification
The biggest specimens can reach a length up to 94 cm but are usually 40 cm long. Carapace almost rectangular and dome-shaped with smooth scales. Coloration dark brown with orange blotches. Yellow spots on legs. Small head.

Range and habitat
South America, from Southern Colombia and Venezuela to Guianas, south to Brazil, east to Bolivia. Lives in grasslands, forests (both dry and humid) and savanna.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : VULNERABLE
CITES : Appendix II
Status : Endangered species because of loss of suitable habitat, poaching and hunting for food. Capture of specimens for wildlife trade is also problematic.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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