Burmese Star Tortoise

Looks how to spot one

shell (carapace and plastron)

A medium-sized tortoise with a domed but somewhat flattened oval shell. The carapace is dark brown or black, decorated with bright yellow star-like rays radiating from each scute. The plastron is yellow with dark blotches. The head, limbs and tail are yellow to tan, and the front legs have pointed, bony scales.14

Personality what they are like

Burmese star tortoises are notably curious, active and unafraid of people. Males especially will approach humans with interest. They are generally not aggressive and can be kept in mixed-sex groups, though males may need separation during the breeding season. They are described as incredibly likeable and less prone to stress than some related species.3

Daily activity how busy a day looks

These tortoises are most active during late morning and early evening. They need plenty of space to roam and explore, and they enjoy hiding under large shrubs. In summer, an outdoor enclosure is strongly recommended to allow natural exercise and sun exposure.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Hatchlings and juveniles require a humid environment to prevent pyramiding of the shell. They benefit from UVB heat lamps. Older tortoises tolerate a wider temperature range but must always have access to a heated shelter. Clean water must be available at all times to prevent dehydration and bladder stones. In cooler climates, tortoises need indoor housing during winter, with temperatures of 21-32°C for youngsters. Adults can be kept outdoors in temperate weather if a heated box is provided.5

Home where they are happiest

Burmese star tortoises are critically endangered and protected by law in Myanmar. They are illegal to trade internationally without permits (CITES Appendix I). In captivity, they need spacious outdoor enclosures with dry, well-drained substrate, plenty of hiding places under shrubs, and a heated shelter for cooler periods. They are prone to respiratory infections if chilled. In temperate regions, they must be brought indoors for winter. Security is essential to prevent theft, as these tortoises are highly valuable.15

Food basics what goes in the bowl

Primarily herbivorous: grasses, leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, mosses and fungi. They occasionally eat invertebrates or carrion. In captivity, feed daily with fresh grasses, vegetables and fruits. Avoid oxalate-rich plants and excessive protein. Prickly-pear cactus is an excellent source of food and water. Clean water must always be available.15

Company who they like around

These tortoises can be kept in groups of several males and females, but during the breeding season it is wise to separate the sexes for a while to reduce stress. They are not typically aggressive. However, due to their critically endangered status and strict legal protections, they are not recommended as pets for beginners. In many countries, private ownership is heavily restricted or illegal without special permits.31

The story where it all began

The Burmese star tortoise was once widespread in the dry forests of central Myanmar, but by the early 2000s it had been driven nearly to extinction by intense poaching for the international pet trade and for local consumption. A successful conservation breeding programme in Myanmar, involving head-starting young tortoises and releasing them into protected sanctuaries, has brought the species back from the brink. Today, around 10,000 individuals exist in breeding centres, and a few thousand survive in the wild. The species is still critically endangered and remains a target for illegal trafficking.12

Recognised by the official bits

IUCN Red List

Critically Endangered (2018 assessment)1

CITES

Appendix I1