The Desert Tortoise has become a popular pet over the past decade, however, this turtle's population is declining at an alarming rate. One major factor contributing to this problem is people feeding them garbage foods from fast-food joints. Another reason may be habitat destruction. As land developers take out the land for big box stores, homes, shopping centers, etc., the tortoise habitats are eliminated. Many people don't realize how critical these desert turtles are to maintaining our ecosystems. Unfortunately, they're dying off at an alarming rate...but we can do something about it! Learn how you can help save these beautiful creatures through education.
Desert tortoises are herbivores that live in deserts throughout North America, Mexico, Central, and South America. They eat mainly succulents and cacti, but also consume small amounts of grasses and herbs. Their diet consists almost entirely of cactus pads and other succulents. Most desert tortoises are omnivores, meaning they can eat both plant matter and animal matter. A few species have been known to eat insects and even ants sometimes (although this is rare). These reptiles have thick skin that protects them from the heat and sun. Although they spend their entire lives in the desert, they do not sweat as much as people do. Instead, they cool themselves off by panting.
