Star Spangled Backshell
Originally uploaded by Pandiyan.
Star Tortoise common in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka .....
They have these special radiating starlike patterns on their shell (carapace) Each star is centred on a pyramidal bump. They are herbivorous which eat grass, flowers and fruits but known to eat insects and carrion at times.
As with any attractive animal, faces danger due to man-made threats - commercial trade in pet markets which coupled with habitat loss signals a difficult future.
Though trade has been made illegal in India, many far east and middle east countries, enforcement is low and the trade thrives due to attractive market. On and off one reads newspaper reports of people caught in airports with suitcases full of star tortoises!
Scientific name: Geochelone elegans
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