Banks of compacted sand or dry creek washes provide adequate ground moisture for egg incubation. Individuals mature between 15 and 20 years of age. Lifespan 50 years or more. Diet Leaves, fruit, stems, cactus, and especially perennial grasses are its main diet. Predators Rats, coyotes and birds prey on the young.
Man collects for pets.
They are presently listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act.