Description
The eastern hinge-back tortoise (Kinixys zombensis) is a medium-sized light-brown to yellow tortoise from Eastern and Southeastern Africa, capable of growing up to 22 cm. It has a unique 90-degree hinge on the back of its shell, which can close to protect its rear legs and tail from predators. This is a feature present on all hinge-back tortoises in the genus Kinixys. The scutes on its shell typically exhibit a radiating pattern of dark patches, which can fade over time. Adult males are noted for their concave belly, and most individuals have five claws on each forefoot. It was previously believed to be a subspecies of the Bell’s hinge-back tortoise (Kinixys belliana).
Diet & habitat
The eastern hinge-back tortoise is found in tropical and sub-tropical savannahs, as well as forest edges. It is a shy and secretive species, but it is more active and common to see during periods of rain. As an omnivore, its diet includes a variety of plants, vegetables, twigs, roots, leaves, fruits, and small invertebrates like earthworms, snails, and tadpoles.
Reproduction
Breeding behavior in hinge-back tortoises can be quite aggressive, especially among males. There are no concrete data on the reproduction of eastern hinge-back tortoise, but in the case of the closely related Bell’s hinge-back tortoise, females may lay more than one clutch during the summer, typically at intervals of about 5-8 weeks. Their clutch sizes usually range from 4-8 eggs, and occasionally up to 10 eggs in larger individuals. The eggs are elongated, and their size and incubation periods can vary significantly. Incubation period typically ranges from 90-110 days for captive individuals, to up to a year in the wild. The hatchlings also show significant size variations among different populations.
Status
The eastern hinge-back tortoise faces threats from the illegal international trade, local collection for food, human population growth, and habitat changes like human-induced fires. As of March 22, 2000, the USDA has banned the importation of this species, along with the leopard tortoise and the African spurred tortoise, likely due to conservation concerns. It is not yet evaluated by the IUCN, but it is classified as least concern on the national red list of South Africa.
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