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Greek tortoise, Testudo graeca
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Greek tortoise, Testudo graeca
Spur-thighed tortoise or Greek tortoise, Testudo graeca. (Common tortoise.) Handcoloured copperplate engraving by Heath after an illustration by George Shaw from his General Zoology, Amphibia, London, 1801
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Media ID 23201788
© Florilegius/Mary Evans
Amphibia Common Graeca Heath Herpetology Shaw Testudo Tortoise Vulnerable Spur Thighed
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This exquisitely detailed hand-colored copperplate engraving depicts the Greek Tortoise, Testudo graeca, also known as the Spur-thighed Tortoise or Common Tortoise. The image is taken from Dr. George Shaw's seminal work, "General Zoology, Amphibia," published in London in 1801. The illustration was meticulously engraved by Heath, capturing the intricacies of this ancient reptile's unique features. The Greek Tortoise is native to the Mediterranean region, including Greece, Turkey, and southern Europe. They are easily identified by the large, flat, spur-like scales on the insides of their thighs, which are used for defense. These tortoises have a domed carapace, which is typically olive-green or brown in color, with a yellowish-brown plastron. Sadly, the Greek Tortoise is currently classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to habitat loss, fragmentation, and poaching for the pet trade. They are important herbivores in their ecosystems, and their decline can have significant consequences for the health of their habitats. This beautiful engraving not only serves as a testament to the artistry of the past but also highlights the importance of preserving the natural world, including the fascinating creatures like the Greek Tortoise. Let us appreciate the intricacies of nature and strive to protect these precious beings for future generations to enjoy.
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