Desert Tortoise

Continuing with my "5" Star Photos we come to the Desert Tortoise. 

Desert Tortoises can live 30 to 50 years. They grow slowly and generally have low reproductive rates. They typically get to about 15 pounds as an adult. They spend most of time in burrows or rock shelters to regulate body temperature and reduce water loss. They are most active after seasonal rains and are inactive during most of the year. This inactivity helps reducing water loss during hot periods, whereas winter hibernation facilitates survival during freezing temperatures and low food availability. Desert tortoises can tolerate water, salt, and energy imbalances on a daily basis, which increases their lifespan. The front limbs have sharp, claw-like scales and are flattened for digging. Back legs are skinnier and very long to help them move more quickly when in danger.

Desert Tortoises are considered "Threatened" with a "Vulnerable" classification.  It is unlawful to disturb, collect, or harm a Desert Tortoise. Emptying the bladder is one of defense mechanisms of this tortoise. This can leave the tortoise in a very vulnerable condition in dry areas, and they should not be alarmed, handled or picked up in the wild unless they are in imminent danger. If they must be handled, and their bladder is emptied, then water should be provided to restore the fluid in their body.

I happen to like this photo, but it also got a bump in rating due to it's protective status. This particular one was on the road just outside our property. I felt that it might get run over so transferred it to the back of the property. I also left water and a cut up apple for it to eat. When I came back to that spot about 30 minutes later he had disappeared. However, most of the apple was eaten and he had obviously had some water as well.

Desert Tortoise