Tortoise

A tortoise is a reptile belonging to the family Testudinidae. They are a type of turtle that lives exclusively on land and are well-known for their dome-shaped shells and slow-moving nature.

Tortoises have a high, domed shell that is a part of their skeleton and provides excellent protection from predators. Their legs are short, sturdy, and often club-shaped, designed for walking on land rather than swimming. They have scales on their legs and head. Many species have a long lifespan, with some living for over a hundred years.

Tortoises are found in a variety of habitats, including deserts, grasslands, and forests, on every continent except Australia and Antarctica. They are herbivores, with a diet that consists mainly of grasses, weeds, flowers, and fruits. They get most of their water from the food they eat.

Tortoises are generally solitary and are most active during the day when the weather is warm. When threatened, they can retract their head and limbs completely into their shell for protection. They are one of the most ancient groups of reptiles and have remained relatively unchanged for millions of years.