The Mojave desert tortoise is a species native to the arid regions of the Mojave Desert in the southwestern United States. It has a distinctive dome-shaped shell that can reach up to 15 inches in length. This tortoise is well-adapted to its harsh environment, primarily feeding on various types of vegetation, including grasses and wildflowers. These tortoises are known for their burrowing behavior, which helps them escape extreme temperatures. They play a crucial role in their ecosystem by creating burrows that provide shelter for other animals. Due to habitat loss and other threats, the Mojave desert tortoise is classified as a threatened species.