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Sitara the Indian Star Tortoise

(Geochelone elegans)

 

When Was She Born? 2010

 

What Does She Eat? She is a herbivore and eats a wide variety of greens, herbs, and grasses.

 

Where Does She Live? India, in the subtropical forests and grasslands.

 

Here’s An Awesome Fact! Indian Star tortoises are considered to have a spiritual meaning in Hindu religion. They are believed to have a link to Vishnu, the Hindu god who protects the universe. This has led to them being kept in temples and as pets in India.

Sitara, who’s name means ‘star’ in Sanskrit, is our oldest tortoise and will be one of our smallest once the others have reached their full size. When it comes to her food she is a very demanding and greedy tortoise, showing increasing irritation the longer it takes for her food to be prepared. Some people may think that tortoises do not have personalities but Sitara has proved many people wrong in this respect with her grumpy and bold attitude. Due to her larger size she is suitable for meeting younger children and can often be bribed with food to sit on your lap.

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