African spurred tortoises are well-adapted for desert life! Their brownish or yellowish shells provide camouflage against predators, while their thick scales protect their limbs and heads. Unique enlarged spurs on their hind limbs help them dig burrows up to 10 feet deep, keeping them cool and conserving moisture. Their thick skin minimizes water loss, allowing them to thrive in arid environments, and they get most of their water from the succulent plants they eat.