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African
spurred tortoises inhabit the southern edge of the Sahara desert in
northern Africa. They get their name from two to three large spurs
located on their thighs. This species has many adaptations and behaviors
for living in a dry environment. Thick skin prevents loss of moisture.
They are active in the morning and evening, spending the hottest part
of the day underground. Their diet of succulent plants provides them
with water, and they coat their skin with mud to cool off. Spurred
tortoises are important to deserts because their burrows provide shelter
for other animals. |
