Tortoise Species · India, Pakistan & Sri Lanka
Indian Star Tortoise
A stunning star-patterned tortoise — and one of the most heavily trafficked in the world.
By the WARN Research & Conservation TeamChecked against IUCN Red List & CITES sourcesLast updated
In brief
The Indian star tortoise (Geochelone elegans) is a small South Asian species famous for the radiating star pattern on its domed shell. Listed Vulnerable by the IUCN and uplisted to CITES Appendix I in 2019, it is among the most trafficked tortoises and should never be bought wild-caught.
Indian Star Tortoise: At a Glance
| Origin | India, Pakistan & Sri Lanka |
|---|---|
| Size | Small–medium (20–30 cm) |
| Adult size | Adult 20–30 cm; females larger than males |
| Lifespan | 30–80 years |
| Shell & appearance | High-domed shell with radiating yellow-and-black star pattern |
| Temperament | Shy, attractive, heat-loving |
| Conservation & suitability | Vulnerable (IUCN); CITES Appendix I — heavily trafficked; never buy wild-caught, support anti-smuggling work and choose only documented captive-bred animals |
History & Origins
The Indian star tortoise lives in dry scrub and grassland across India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. Its beautiful shell drives enormous illegal collection — tens of thousands are smuggled yearly — and in 2019 it was uplisted to CITES Appendix I, banning commercial international trade. It does not hibernate and needs warm, dry conditions.
Indian Star Tortoise Fun Facts
- Its shell shows a striking radiating star pattern.
- It is one of the most heavily trafficked tortoises in the world.
- It was uplisted to CITES Appendix I in 2019.
- It is a warm-climate species that does not hibernate.
Indian Star Tortoise Common Health Issues
Conditions seen more often in this breed, and how owners and vets help manage them. This is general guidance, not veterinary advice — always speak to your vet.
Metabolic bone disease
Calcium and vitamin D3 deficiency or inadequate UVB lighting softens and deforms the shell and bones.
Care: Provide correct UVB lighting, a calcium-rich plant diet and vet-guided supplementation.
Runny nose syndrome
A chronic upper-respiratory infection in tortoises causing nasal discharge, bubbling and laboured breathing, often linked to incorrect temperature or humidity.
Care: Correct the temperature gradient and humidity and see a reptile vet; isolate affected tortoises.
Intestinal parasites
Heavy worm burdens cause weight loss, diarrhoea and lethargy in tortoises.
Care: A reptile vet can run faecal tests and prescribe appropriate worming treatment.
A tortoise is a lifetime commitment
Tortoises live 50–100 years and routinely outlive their owners. Many species are still trafficked from the wild, so choose captive-bred animals, provide species-appropriate housing and plan for decades of care.
