Radiated turtle

The Madagascar striped tortoise

Native to southern Madagascar, the striped tortoise(Astrochelys radiata) is one of the world's most beautiful terrestrial species. Its dark shell adorned with golden stars gives it the name "striped tortoise". This unique design serves both as camouflage and protection against the intense heat of its environment.

Controlled breeding at A Cupulatta Park

Newborns of this species are first raised in greenhouses during their first months of life. They grow better in a warm, humid atmosphere similar to that of Madagascar. When they reach 4 to 5 cm, the young turtles move to a drier terrarium, adapted to their natural biotope.

Lifestyle and natural habitat

In the wild, the Radiated Tortoise lives in the dry, scrubby areas of southern Madagascar. It feeds mainly on grasses, succulent plants and fruit. It is a diurnal species, active mainly in the morning and at the end of the day to avoid the heat.

An endangered species

Today, the striped tortoise is classified as critically endangered by the IUCN. It suffers from habitat loss, poaching and the illegal pet trade. Park A Cupulatta contributes to its preservation through breeding and public awareness programs.

Click here to discover and visit the A Cupulatta turtle park near Ajaccio.