Star Tortoise

About Star Tortoise

• The Indian star tortoise is a threatened species of tortoise found in dry areas and scrub forest in Indian subcontinent.

Distribution and habitat

• They can be found along their natural range in India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan.
• Their natural habitats include semi-desert grasslands, moist deciduous forest, sand dunes, scrub forests, humid jungles and human-altered habitats.

Conservation status

• They have been classified as Vulnerable in IUCN red data book.
• They are subjected to illegal wildlife trade and is often smuggled out and sold in the international market.
• It is protected under Wildlife protection act (Schedule IV) and CITES agreement.

Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding Star Tortoise:
1.It is a critically endangered species of Tortoise.
2.It is endemic to north eastern India.
Which among the above statements is/are correct?
(a)1 only 
(b)2 only 
(c)Both 1 and 2
(d)Neither 1 nor 2

Answer to prelims question