Gopherus agassizii
As Nevada’s state reptile and listed as a threatened species, the Desert Tortoise has been given so much attention that a description is hardly needed. It is our only native turtle in the recreation area. The adults may live up to 50 years and are from 8 to 15 inches long. The females lay one clutch of up to 15 eggs each year. The hatchlings are approximately 1 1/2 inches long. The young are preyed upon by a variety of animals, especially the raven. Habitat: The tortoise frequents open creosote bush desert, washes, alluvial fans, and rocky slopes. Diet: The tortoise is a herbivore, feeding upon grasses and a variety of other plants, especially the flowers. Adaptations: Few desert reptiles can claim as many different adaptations to the extremes of the desert as does the tortoise. It constructs two types of burrows to accommodate the harsh temperatures. It will dig a burrow up to 30 feet long in which to hibernate during winter or to estivate during the hottest months. A shorter burrow is used to weather shorter periods of high daily temperatures. The tortoise is active during the entire day during the cooler times of early spring and late fall. Otherwise it stays underground except for very early morning and late evening or during the infrequent gentle, soaking summer rains. Nocturnal activity is rare. The tortoise’s shell aids in temperature control, by protecting the animal within from high external temperatures. At times when water is plentiful, the tortoise also stores water in its bladder. Much of its water comes from the vegetation it eats, but it takes advantage of rain and other water if available, and during rain it will dig small catchment basins for water. The tortoise's shovel-shaped forelimbs help it to easily dig burrows. Being heavily armored, the limbs help to protect the tortoise when it withdraws into its shell.
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