Chersina

A charming, resilient reptile that calls the southern coastal regions of South Africa and Namibia its home. Also known as the bowsprit tortoise (thanks to its sharply pointed, protruding gular shield under its neck), this medium-sized tortoise is one of the most iconic and beloved animals of the fynbos, coastal dunes, and dry shrublands of southern Africa. It thrives in arid and semi-arid landscapes, places where toughness, patience, and a little flair go a long way toward survival.

Its shell, or carapace, is highly domed and beautifully patterned with radiating lines of dark and light brown, giving it a sun-kissed, earthy look that blends perfectly into the sandy and rocky environments it inhabits. The edges of the shell often have distinct angled, flared scutes, which give the tortoise a more “armored” appearance — and where its scientific name angulata (“angled”) comes from.

The Angulate tortoise’s gular shield — the sharp extension under its chin — isn’t just decorative. Males use it as a weapon during combat, ramming into rivals to establish dominance and win mating rights, much like tiny, armored knights jousting in slow motion!

These tortoises are herbivores, feeding mostly on grasses, flowers, succulents, and fallen fruits. Their ability to digest tough, fibrous plants allows them to survive in nutrient-poor environments where few other animals can thrive. They also get most of their water from the food they eat, a crucial adaptation in their often dry, unpredictable habitats.

These tortoises are incredibly temperature-sensitive. They are most active during the cooler parts of the day — early morning and late afternoon — and will seek shade or burrow under vegetation during the intense midday heat. After heavy rains, they often become particularly lively, taking advantage of fresh, green plant growth.