Pancake tortoise
Malacochersus tornieri
About
The pancake tortoise is one of nature’s most unusual reptiles. Its shell is flat, flexible and far lighter than that of other tortoises – an adaptation perfectly suited to the rocky landscapes of East Africa. When threatened, instead of hiding inside its shell, it slips into tight crevices too narrow for predators to reach.
This body shape allows it to move through steep, rugged terrain with surprising ease.
But despite these adaptations, the species is in decline. Habitat loss and the illegal pet trade are placing growing pressure on wild populations.
Pancake tortoise facts
Threats
Pancake tortoises are losing their rocky refuges to farming and development. At the same time, demand in the illegal pet trade is putting pressure on wild populations. Without protection, their numbers will continue to fall.
Human intervention
Changes in land use are destroying the rocky shelters pancake tortoises rely on.
Illegal wildlife trade
High demand in the exotic pet market poses a serious threat.
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