Radiated Tortoises  

- Geochelone (Astrochelys) radiata - Chris Tabaka DVM and

Darrell Senneke

This care sheet is intended only to cover the general care of this
species. Further research to best develop a
maintenance/reproduction plan for whichever
species/subspecies you are caring for is essential. 

Say the word “radiata” to any tortoise lover and almost invariably
their jaw will drop, their eyes will glaze over and a far-away look will appear on their
on their face. Such is the power of Geochelone radiata, the Radiated Tortoise of
Madagascar.

There are many reasons accounting for this reaction. To be certain, a large part of
this mystique is the fact that they are designated CITES I and are also on the US
Endangered Species list. This makes them one of the most protected tortoise
species in the world, giving them a “forbidden fruit” appeal. Yet for those willing to
put forward the time, effort, funds,  and sacrifice, captive bred wildlife permits and
captive bred specimens can be obtained. Their point of origin on the exotic island of
Madagascar, a land of mystery to most herpetoculturists, known for its unique
species, adds to the overall mystique.   Throw in the incredible beauty of this species
and the result is an animal that for many is their “dream tortoise”.  Stunningly
attractive, their black shell contrasts sharply with their yellow patterns.  Having
evolved in a similar environment to the Indian Star tortoise (Geochelone elegans)
they bear a similar starred pattern, but a starred pattern of greater complexity and on
a much larger tortoise.  This same pattern that makes them stand out so in a
collection or a photo makes them nearly invisible in their natural habitat of thorny
brush and tall grasses. Geochelone radiata are one of the larger species of tortoise,
reaching 40 cm (16 inches) and nearly 16 Kilograms (35 pounds).   An adult
Radiated tortoise is a truly impressive animal.

 
In many ways, Radiated
tortoises are like a
combination of many other
tortoises in terms of their
care. While they do
periodically experience very
dry climates such as the
Leopard tortoise
(Geochelone pardalis)
they are also in a monsoon
region and experience
heavy rains and generally
very wet weather.  One
behavior that has developed
with Radiated tortoises is
that they will literally dance
in the rain almost as if they are trying to shake off debris.  They will also drink heavily
from the ground during such “monsoons”.  If supplied with a dry hutch, they can be
maintained in fairly humid areas similar to the Redfoot tortoise (Geochelone
carbonaria).

HOUSING RADIATEDS INDOORS - The most common form of indoor

accommodation for small or medium sized Radiated Tortoises consists of a “turtle
table”. To all appearances this looks like a bookshelf unit flipped onto its back. A
reasonable size for a hatchling is 2 feet by 3 feet (60 cm by 90 cm).   As the animal
grows, the size of this habitat should be increased.   For an adult Radiated tortoise,
the indoor accommodation should be at least 8 feet by 4 feet (240 cm by 120 cm) 
Into the bottom of this “turtle table” holes can be cut to allow for the sinking of food,
water, and eventually nesting containers flush with the surface for easier animal
access. 

The water area of the habitat should be large enough to allow the tortoise to
completely soak in it if it wishes - it must also be shallow enough to protect it from
drowning. Cypress mulch is the indoor substrate of choice for this species due to its
humidity retention characteristics which in turn leads to good scute and skin health.

In one corner of the environment a 100W spot lamp should be positioned to provide
artificial basking facilities. This should be positioned to provide a basking spot of 90
degrees F (32 degrees C) or so in that section of the habitat.  The habitat should
also be equipped with a full spectrum fluorescent light to provide for UVB. A UVB
source is necessary for Vitamin D3 syntheses (needed in calcium metabolism)  If
preferred to this lighting arrangement a Mercury vapor bulb may be used that fulfills
both heat and UVB requirements. There should be a hide box located in the corner
away from the basking spot to allow the animal a cool dim retreat. 
OUTDOOR HOUSING - Predator proof outdoor habitats offer many advantages over
indoor accommodations and should be seriously considered as an option during
warmer weather.  Some areas of the habitat should be heavily planted to allow the
Radiated a cool dim retreat.  While this species doesn’t seek out grassy tussocks as
actively as the Star tortoise, they will still receive frequent use.  Provision of a wet,
muddy area for wallowing will also be appreciated by your tortoise. Radiated
tortoises take readily to using a hutch or doghouse-like artificial retreat.  In areas with
cool nights a thermostatically controlled ceramic heater in such a retreat will provide
the tortoise with an area that remains above 55 degrees F (16 C).  This is a
moderately cold hardy species as adults.

DIET - Radiateds are primarily herbivorous animals. Excessive protein as well as all
animal protein should be avoided as they are highly prone to pyramiding. G. radiata
are also extremely attracted to any foodstuff that are red in color.
 
The diet offered should consist of:  

 Leafy greens (dandelions, clover, endive etc.)  

 Fruits (10 – 20 %)
 Grasses
 Occasional supplementation with Mazuri Tortoise Diet

Because of their large adult size, additional calcium supplementation is absolutely

essential. For proper growth as well as egg production, powdered calcium can be
sprinkled on all foods once a week to help meet these requirements.  It is suggested
that one use calcium supplemented with vitamin D3 if the animal is being maintained
indoors and calcium without D3 if it is outdoors. Provision of a cuttlefish bone, which
can be gnawed for its calcium content as well as for a healthy beak, is also
recommended. The substrate of choice is cypress mulch or something possessing
the same humidity holding properties in order to keep their shells/skin from drying
out in captive conditions. In outdoor pens in areas of high sand content, food should
not be placed directly on sandy soil. Sand can build up in the tortoises GI tract
leading to possible impaction and even death. One author has witnessed this
firsthand in a necropsy of a radiated tortoise that died of twisted bowels due to a
sand impaction. A completely separate sand-free area in the habitat must be utilized
to feed.

MEDICAL COMMENTS – In general this is a very, very hardy species. Medical

problems seen by one of the authors includes such situations as sand impaction
leading to intestinal strangulation and death, an iodine deficiency in the diet which
led to the formation of goiter (reddened swollen areas on the side of the neck which
resolved with supplemental iodine in the diet), and an unidentified viral
encephalopathy in an animal (possibly herpes in origin- NEVER mix species and
especially a species such as this with any others).  
Due to the extreme pressures on native populations of Geochelone radiata as can
be seen in John Behler's Letter To CITES Animal Committee and Concerned
Parties, in which he details the Killing fields of Anandriana, (9 January 2002) *. It is
important that if possible every effort is made to reproduce the animals in your care.
While some animals are too severely affected by poor diet leading to such maladies
as flattening/collapse (see picture) or extreme pyramiding (see picture), all healthy
specimens of this species carry the added burden of attempted reproduction. Feel
free to contact the authors for technical expertise contacts in this area.

Dietary Based Deformities Seen in G. radiata

G. radiata with "flattened" shell due to G. radiata with "pyramiding" due to

improper diet improper diet

This species does not hibernate in nature.  Facilities must be provided for the
continued health and well being of the tortoise indoors in cooler (non tropical)
climates.  

Radiated Tortoise

Taxonomy
Order: Chelonia
Family: Testudinidae
Genus/species: Geochelone radiata

Description
Growing to a carapace length of up to 16 inches (41 cm) and weighing up to 35
pounds (16kg), the radiated tortoise is considered to be one of the world's most
beautiful tortoises.

This tortoise has the basic "tortoise" body shape, which consists of the high-domed
carapace, a blunt head, and elephantine feet. The legs, feet, and head are yellow
except for a variably sized black patch on top of the head.
The carapace of the radiated tortoise is brilliantly marked with yellow lines radiating
from the center of each dark plate of the shell, hence its name. This "star" pattern is
more finely detailed and intricate than the normal pattern of other star-patterned
tortoise species, such as G. elegans of India.

The radiated tortoise is also larger than G. elegans, and the scutes of the carapace
are smooth, and not raised up into a bumpy, pyramidal shape as is commonly seen
in the latter species. There is slight sexual dimorphism. Compared to females, male
radiated tortoises usually have longer tails and the notch in the plastron beneath the
tail is more noticeable

Distribution and Habitat

Radiated tortoises occur naturally only in the extreme southern and southwestern
part of the island of Madagascar. They have also been introduced to the nearby
island of Reunion.

They prefer dry regions of brush, thorn (Diderae) forests and woodlands of southern
Madagascar.

Diet in the Wild

The radiated tortoise is a grazing herbivore. They feed during the day primarily on
grasses, fruit and succulent plants, which form 80 to 90 percent of their diet. A
favorite food in the wild is the Opuntia cactus. They are known to graze regularly in
the same area, thus keeping the vegetation in that area closely trimmed. They seem
to prefer new growth rather than mature growth because of the high-protein, low-
fiber content.

Zoo Diet
They are fed a mixture of leafy greens. This can include collard greens, kale, and
chicory.

Reproduction
Males first mate upon attaining lengths of about 12 inches (31 cm); females may
need to be a few inches longer. The male begins this fairly noisy procedure by
bobbing his head and smelling the female's hind legs and cloaca. In some cases the
male may lift the female up with the front edge of his shell to keep her from moving
away.

The male then proceeds to mount the female from the rear while striking the anal
region of his plastron against the female’s carapace. Hissing and grunting by the
male during mating is common. Females lay from three to 12 eggs in a pre-
excavated hole six to eight inches (15 to 20 cm) deep and then depart.

Incubation is quite long in this species, lasting usually between five and eight
months. Juveniles are between 1.25 to 1.6 inches (3.2 to 4 cm) upon hatching.
Unlike the yellow coloration of the adults, the juveniles are a white to an off-white
shade. Juveniles attain the high-domed carapace soon after hatching.

Life Span
Radiated tortoises may live as long as 40 to 50 years.
Status
Unfortunately, these tortoises are severely endangered due to loss of habitat, being
poached for food, and being over exploited in the pet trade. It is listed in Appendix I
of CITES, which prohibits the import or export of the species under most conditions.
However, due to the poor economic conditions of Madagascar, many of the laws are
largely ignored.

No estimates of wild populations are available, but their numbers are declining, and
many authorities see the potential for a rapid decline to extinction in the wild. In the
North American studbook, 332 specimens are listed as participating in captive
breeding programs such as the SSP. Captive breeding has shown great promise.
The radiated tortoises on exhibit at the Zoo are all females and are not part of the
SSP breeding program at this time.

Fun Facts
The shell is supplied with blood vessels and nerves so like other tortoises it can feel
when being touched.

Some Chinese will pay the equivalent of $50 for a radiated tortoise fto eat (they are
also believed to have aphrodisiac properties). Despite laws completely protecting the
species, traffic in tortoises from the south coast of Madagascar to the capital
continues. When caught, this tortoise emits high-pitched cries, sometimes for as long
as an hour after capture. This loud noise would startle a predator and it would
potentially give up.
A Review of the Captive Breeding Program
for the Radiated Tortoise at the New York
Zoological Society's Wildlife Survival
Center
by John L. Behler and John Iaderosa

Adult radiated tortoise

Photograph by Fred Caporaso

The New York Zoological Society (NYZS) has maintained a herd of Madagascan
radiated tortoises (Geochelone radiata) at its Wildlife Survival Center on St.
Catherine's Island, Georgia, since 1979. Since the program was initiated, various
management schemes have been employed and modified as dictated by observed
social and reproductive behaviors (see Behler and Valenzuela, 1983; and Iaderosa,
et al., 1990a). Approximately 200 hatchlings have occurred with more than 100 of
these taking place during the past three seasons as a result of refinements to our
management protocol. Current practices are discussed below. Consistent successful
captive propagation of this species has hinged upon the development of an NYZS
directed Species Survival Plan program, careful attention to the health and nutritional
status of the herd, and a planned annual calendar of social interactions among
members of the breeding groups.

Facilities and Environment

The 2,800 m tortoise propagation complex includes a 6.1 x 16.5 m heated wintering
barn and a series of 15 x 15 m to 15 x 25 m breeding and management yards
surrounded by a 2.4 m high vinyl-clad chain-link fence. St. Catherine's Island is
situated at 31° 40' N latitude, and the core range of G. radiata falls between 23° 30'
and 25° 30' S on Madagascar. Observed temperature extremes on St. Catherine's
Island have ranged from -15° C to 38° C during the past decade. The annual
average temperature for nearby Savannah, Georgia, is 18.9° C; average rainfall =
1,262 mm. By comparison, the natural environment of G. radiata is characteristically
tropical despite its position below the Tropic of Capricorn. Donque (1972) notes that
the low-lying southern coastal areas experience rather uniform temperatures over
the entire year. The difference between monthly average temperatures for summer
and winter months is less than ten degrees. Temperature and rainfall data for Tulear
and Ft. Dauphin, which represent the northwest and southeast ends of the radiated
tortoises' range, are 22.8° C and 342 mm, and 23.8° C and 1,530 mm, respectively.
Despite differences, seasonality of both St. Catherine's and native haunts of the
radiated tortoise is marked by dry and cool seasons, prolonged periods of very warm
humid days, and severe summer tropical storms.

Management practices on St. Catherine's attempt to keep environmental parameters

within bounds of those the tortoises would experience in nature. The references cited
in the introduction describe the management facility in greater detail, and offer
additional information on the character of St. Catherine's Island, and the history of
the tortoise propagation program there.

Management of Female Tortoises

Female radiated tortoises are housed together from mid-November until the end of
April. Then they are assigned breeding partners according to Species Survival Plan
directives. On 1 May, individual females are placed in an outdoor breeding pen with
a previously stimulated male. Females typically are very actively courted for 2-3 days
post introduction. When courtship and mounting behaviors have stopped, females
are removed from breeding pens and placed in a nearby yard with other females.
One to two weeks later, they are reintroduced to their assigned breeding partner.

Management of Male Tortoises

Like females, males are housed together during the cold weather, non-breeding
season. In late April assigned breeders are separated from the male herd and placed
in one of the pens with one or two beta males. The alpha animal will remain in the
pen until mid-November. Aggressive interaction between alpha and beta individuals
typically takes place in the pens and serves to stimulate the breeder. Just before
introduction of the females on 1 May, beta males are removed to the bachelor pen.
When reproduction activity wanes, the females are removed and beta males are
reintroduced. The addition of beta individuals again provokes combat activities. The
importance of these aggressive interactions between male "rivals" to program
success can't be too strongly emphasized. On the other hand, breeding groups
maintained together in a single enclosure during the breeding season may not
reproduce well because males are preoccupied with agonistic behaviors and miss
out on breeding opportunities.

Egg Production and Incubation

Since 1987, nearly 500 eggs have been laid by five females. Iaderosa, et al, (1990b)
report recent data. Egg deposition has occurred in all months of the year but more
than 90% of these events took place between 1 September and 30 April. Only 8% of
the eggs laid before 15 October (= 30% of total eggs deposited) are fertile, while
41% of eggs laid after that date to the end of the season are fertile. Overall fertility
rate has been 32%. Clutch size has ranged from 2-9 eggs (mean = 5.1). A given
female may nest as many as seven times per year but 5-6 nestings/producing
female/season is considered normal at St. Catherine's. Interclutch interval has
ranged from 21 days to 3 years. Occasionally a female has stopped producing eggs
for two or more seasons and then commenced laying again normally. Nesting times
have clustered around midday. Eggs are excavated from the nest, numbered with a
soft lead pencil, weighed and measured, and artificially incubated in air-tight 4 l
containers, 1/3 filled with moistened vermiculite (vermiculite/water = 1/1 by weight) in
a commercial wooden chick incubator (GQF #25). Incubation length, across all
temperatures employed, ranged from 79-273 days (means for 28.9° C, 30.0° C, and
31.1° C = 121, 112, and 114 days, respectively).

Hatchling Care

Hatchling tortoises are removed from the incubator when they fully emerge from the
egg and their yolk sac is less than 1 cm. In most cases this falls about 3 days after
pipping. They are weighed and measured, and their umbilicus is rinsed with Betadine
solution. They are initially set up in soft-paper-towel-lined aquaria and are given
access to water daily. At 50 g the young tortoises are moved to a substrate of Purina
Horse Chow 100 and watered twice weekly before feedings. Details about lighting,
including UV supplementation, temperature regimens, and general care of young
have not changed significantly from earlier reports.

Adult Diet

During most of the year, graze makes up 80-90% of the tortoise diet. Common
southern grasses, a local vervain (Lippia), and legumes are favored foods. Tortoises
appear to maintain their own pasture as they regularly return to the same area to
graze and thus keep the vegetation (mostly grasses) closely trimmed. New growth is
presumed to be higher in protein and lower in fiber than surrounding mature growth.
Spanish moss (Tillandsia usneoides), poison ivy (Toxicodendron radicans), live oak
(Quercus virginiana), trumpet creeper (Campsis radicans), tree of heaven (Ailanthus
altissima), and a wide variety of other native and introduced plant species which
grow in the outdoor pens are eaten opportunistically. Twice weekly tortoises are
offered a mixture of chopped fruits and vegetables and a small portion of Zu/Preem
Primate Canned Diet. During the winter months, while the tortoises are in their
shelter building, seasonally available greens are fed daily. In outdoor and indoor
facilities the tortoises are fed free choice.

Future Initiatives

The radiated tortoise is often referred to as the world's most beautiful tortoise. It is a
very popular display species in zoological parks and it has prospered from zoo and
private breeding programs. Today, more than 400 specimens are registered in the
North American studbook for G. radiata. Although the authors found the species to
be common in the core of their range in early 1990, the potential for rapid decline
remains to be a concern of chelonian authorities. Durrell et al. (1989) summarized
the species' status and threats to survival. While considerable strides have been
made in the area of captive culture, most aspects of the biology of the species in the
wild remain to be studied. Captive programs could profit from knowledge of growth
rates and comparative weights of wild radiated tortoises as well as data on their wild
diets, parasite burdens, and blood chemistry. Future initiatives should include
exploration of these unknowns. Captive programs should continue to develop to
satisfy the objectives of the Species Survival Plan for radiated tortoises. While
existing founder and potential founder stocks seem more than adequate to preserve
a very high degree of heterozygosity in the North American population, additional
recruits from among confiscated stocks should be sought to more fully insure the
SSP program. As a further hedge, a European studbook program and a Europaische
Erhaltungszucht Programme (European version of SSP) should be developed.
Likewise, Malagasy authorities, with assistance from these bodies, as well as the
IUCN/SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group and its Captive Breeding
Specialist Group, should improve the captive management program at their national
zoos. Further, a program of repatriation, which should follow a very strict veterinary
protocol, should be developed. Ideally such a plan would involve the indigenous
peoples who do not now exploit the animal and who could serve as stewards for
tortoises returned to the wild. It must also include a strong educational component
and be aimed at all elements of the Malagasy society. Unfortunately, the economic
conditions in the Malagasy Republic are extremely poor. Consequently there is a
favorable climate for exploitation of wildlife resources. Today this is clearly evident in
the scores of shipments for the pet market of delicate chameleons, day geckos, and
Mantella frogs - some known only from their type localities - which are entering the
United States. Legislation that protects the radiated tortoise, as well as local
protective customs, are now largely ignored. There is simply no money to enforce
the law. Consequently the country lays ripe for plunder and wildlife authorities can
give little thought to how current actions will forever change the complexion of
Madagascar's wondrous fauna. Our initiatives must come to grips with these
problems and plan our future courses carefully.