Hinge Tortoise

Common Name: Hinged Tortoise

Scientific Name: Kinyxys

Diet: A combination of plant matter, mushrooms. vegetables and fruits, and vertebrate or invertebrate protein.

Overview: Hingebacks are famous and unique due to the ability to close the back part of the shell over their hind limbs, likely as protection from big cats and other powerful predators.

Reproduction: Eggs are laid in nests, which for some species may be piles of leaves

Conservation Status and Threats: Hingebacked tortoises are threatened or endangered in the wild. There is also pressure from over-collection for the pet trade and habitat loss.