Sulcata Tortoise

African Tortoise of the Sahel

This is the largest continental tortoise, after those from the Seychelles and the Galápagos. It is widespread in the sub-Saharan region, thriving in a very arid climate, where it exhibits perfect homochromy or camouflage with its environment (a yellow-orange hue typical of the Sahara).

Its morphology is designed for digging deep burrows (thanks to the shape of its gular scute - located under its neck - which it uses like a shovel) where it shelters from the heat. Additionally, the highly developed shape of this scute is also used for fighting!

Mating in this tortoise is quite remarkable, as the male emits short, guttural sounds that can be heard hundreds of meters away!

According to some African beliefs, tortoise water (used as a drink or in baths) is highly sought after for curing certain diseases, particularly asthma. In Senegal, it is a symbol of fertility and happiness. Its main threats remain humans, desertification, and overgrazing.

Click here to discover and visit the A Cupulatta tortoise park near Ajaccio.