VU

Chelonoidis chilensis

Unknown

Overview

A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.

The Chilean tortoise faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the pet trade, with thousands captured annually from wild populations across Argentina and Chile. Habitat degradation from livestock overgrazing and agricultural expansion has fragmented remaining suitable areas, while introduced predators and domestic animals pose additional threats to eggs and juveniles. Climate change is altering precipitation patterns in their already arid habitat, potentially reducing food availability during critical periods.

Threat summary

Habitat

Chelonoidis chilensis inhabits arid and semi-arid scrublands, grasslands, and monte desert regions across Argentina and Chile. These tortoises prefer areas with scattered vegetation, rocky outcrops for shelter, and seasonal water sources, typically at elevations from sea level to 1,500 meters.

Conservation measures underway

Legislation

Other threatened species in TESTUDINIDAE

Indian Star TortoiseVU

Indian Star Tortoise

Geochelone elegans

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VU

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Gopherus polyphemusCR

Gopherus polyphemus

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Eastern Santa Cruz Giant TortoiseCR

Eastern Santa Cruz Giant Tortoise

Chelonoidis donfaustoi

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Frequently asked questions

Why is Chelonoidis chilensis classified as Vulnerable?
Chelonoidis chilensis is classified as Vulnerable because the population is declining and the species faces a high risk of extinction in the medium-term future if current pressures continue. The Chilean tortoise faces severe pressure from illegal collection for the pet trade, with thousands captured annually from wild populations across Argentina and Chile. Habitat degradation from livestock overgrazing and agricultural expansion has fragmented remaining suitable areas, while introduced predators and domestic animals pose additional threats to eggs and juveniles. Climate change is altering precipitation patterns in their already arid habitat, potentially reducing food availability during critical periods.
Where does Chelonoidis chilensis live?
Chelonoidis chilensis occurs in across multiple regions. Country-level distribution data is sourced from the IUCN Red List and cross-referenced with GBIF occurrences.
What are the main threats to Chelonoidis chilensis?
The main threats to Chelonoidis chilensis are ai-1, ai-2, ai-3, and ai-4. The full IUCN-classified threat record for this species is detailed on the species page.

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