Kalahari tent tortoise

Introduction: The Kalahari Tent Tortoise (Psammobates oculiferus) is so called because of its preference for habitats in the desert of the same name. It can be found in woodland and north central thorn bush and savannah regions mentioned in the distribution section. It avoids the dryer western and north-western regions of the country. Peak foraging periods are in the morning, decreasing in the late afternoon and early evening.

Distribution: The sandy substrates of the eastern areas of Namibia's Kalahari Desert regions northwards from Mariental and south to the Karasberg Region.

Diet: The Kalahari Tent Tortoise feeds on a large variety of plants, with over 30 species having been recorded. Herbs such as the milk bush and slender dwarf morning glory are a favourite.

Colouring: The convex carapace has a unique set of serrated shields that usually curl upwards at the rear region. They are usually yellowish on a black background that form eye-like patterns which are more easily identified on the sides of the shell.

Breeding: The incubation period is not known on this species but females lay clutches of 1 or 2 eggs and a single egg in the summer rainy season.

Weight: 366g. Females are bigger than males and have a shell that is more rounded and consequently higher than those of the male.

Dangers and predators: San Bushmen who sell juvenile shells to tourists as decorated snuff or perfume containers. Predators include hyenas, honey badgers, mongooses, jackals, secretary birds and eagles.