Burmese Star Tortoise

Geochelone platynota

Animal Class: Reptile

Length: 10-12 inches

Weight: Around 7 pounds

Lifespan: 50 years or more

Diet: Herbivore

Habitat: Native to a small area of Myanmar

Description: This medium-sized tortoise is named for the star pattern on its shell.

Burmese star tortoises are currently a critically endangered species, but they were once thought to be extinct in the wild. Through dedicated conservation work, captive-born Burmese star tortoises were released into the wild, and by now, more than 5,000 have been released. Although challenges like civil and political unrest, habitat destruction, and illegal pet trade still threaten the species, Burmese star tortoises continue to breed and grow in the wild.

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered