Not just for the shell of it: red-footed tortoises have been observed eating sand, which scientists think may help break down rough plant materials.
ORIGIN:
South America
HABITAT:
Forests and savannas
HEIGHT/WEIGHT:
Length: 1 ft
DIET:
Fruits and decaying plant and animal matter
PREDATORS:
Unknown
NATURAL DEFENSES:
Tough shell
REPRODUCTION:
Sexually mature at 5 yrs
THREATS:
Habitat loss and human hunting
LIFE EXPECTANCY:
50 yrs
Last Admission: 3:30 PM
