California desert tortoise

The California desert tortoise is a slow-moving, long-lived reptile native to the Mojave and Sonoran Deserts. It has a domed, sturdy shell that protects it from predators and harsh desert conditions. Tortoises primarily eat grasses, herbs, and cacti, and they are well-adapted to conserve water during droughts. They spend much of their time underground in burrows to avoid extreme heat. As a threatened species, they face risks from habitat loss, vehicles, illegal collection, and disease. Conservation efforts aim to preserve their desert habitats and protect these resilient creatures for future generations.