Burmese star tortoise facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Burmese star tortoise |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| At Sunshine International Aquarium, Japan | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Geochelone
|
| Species: |
platynota
|
The Burmese star tortoise (Geochelone platynota) is a special type of tortoise. It is native to the dry forests of Myanmar (also known as Burma). This tortoise is considered critically endangered. This means there are very, very few left in the wild, and they are in danger of disappearing forever.
About the Burmese Star Tortoise
What Does It Look Like?
The Burmese star tortoise has amazing patterns on its shell. Its top shell, called a carapace, has star-shaped designs that spread out. These patterns make it look like it has bumps shaped like stars.
You can tell this tortoise apart from the more common Indian star tortoise. Just look at the bottom shell, called the plastron, of both species. They have different markings there.
Helping Them Survive: Breeding Programs
It is hard to breed Burmese star tortoises. But scientists and conservationists are working hard to help them. The first successful breeding in captivity happened at Taipei Zoo in Taiwan. A few baby tortoises hatched there in 2003.
Yadanabon Zoological Gardens also has a special program. They are trying to breed more of these tortoises. Their goal is to help the population grow.
In 2004, there were only about 200 tortoises in these programs. By October 2017, this number had grown a lot! There were 14,000 tortoises in breeding programs. About 1,000 of these tortoises have even been released back into the wild.
On July 31, 2021, Richard Branson shared some exciting news. Two baby Burmese star tortoises were born on his private island, Necker Island. This is part of his efforts to help save this amazing species.
