Natal Hinge-Back Tortoise.

Kinixys natalensis

A closer look

Field notes for spotting, identifying and understanding natal hinge-back tortoise in its natural range.

Overview

How to identify it

Habitat

Dry rocky thornveld, valley bushveld, dry thicket and bushveld savanna from about 50–1,200 m; generally absent from coastal areas, deep sand and forest.

Diet

Omnivorous, feeding on plants and invertebrates. Fungi are suspected from related Kinixys but are not treated here as verified for this species.

Behaviour

When to look

Active particularly in humid, overcast conditions and after rain. Captive brumation is documented, but it is not assumed to occur in the wild.

Where to see it

South Africa

Safety and etiquette

Observe from a safe distance and never handle or feed wildlife.

Verification and sources

1500 verified species across ten Southern African countries. Spotted an error? Tell us through community guidelines.