Gopherus agassizii
Fast Facts
- The desert tortoise is able to live where temperatures may exceed 140°F because of its ability to dig underground.
- To maximize their use of infrequent rainfall, tortoises dig catchment basins in the soil, remember where these are, and sometimes wait by them when rain appears imminent.
- Adult tortoises may survive a year or more without access to water.
Range
Southwestern United States and Northwestern Mexico
Habitat
Semi-arid grasslands, desert washes, and sandy canyons below 3,500 feet
Size
4-6 inches in height, and 9-15 inches in length
Nutrition
herbs, grasses, shrubs, and new growth of cactus and their flowers