Template:POTD/2023-10-09

Picture of the day

The radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata) is a species of tortoise in the family Testudinidae. Although it is native to and most abundant in southern Madagascar, it can also be found in the rest of this island, and has been introduced to the islands of Réunion and Mauritius. It is a very long-lived species, with recorded lifespans of up to 188 years. Adults typically have a carapace length of 26 to 38 centimetres (10 to 15 in). These tortoises are classified as critically endangered by the IUCN, mainly because of the destruction of their habitat and because of poaching.Photograph credit: Charles J. Sharp