Rare Tortoise Lays Eggs In Deer Park, Draws Tourists
The nesting has turned the deer park into a local attraction, with families, students and nature lovers flocking to the park. Many visitors have been spotted taking selfies and videos, eager to witness what they describe as a once-in-a-lifetime moment.
KARIMNAGAR: In a rare and exciting development, a star tortoise has laid five eggs at the Deer Park in Karimnagar district, drawing a wave of tourists and wildlife enthusiasts to the site. Star tortoises, known for their distinctive shell patterns, are typically found in coastal or forested regions and are rarely spotted in inland plains. Their nesting behaviour is even more uncommon, requiring specific environmental conditions to start egg-laying.
Forest official A. Anand Kumar told Deccan Chronicle that one of the park’s adult female tortoises laid five eggs recently—an extraordinary event considering the hot and dry climate of the region. “These tortoises are extremely shy and will only lay eggs when they feel entirely safe and the weather is favourable. This is the first time it has happened in the park, which shows the animal feels secure and well cared for,” he said.
Currently, the park is home to three star tortoises—one female and two males—all rescued by forest beat officers a year ago. With summer temperatures rising, officials have taken special care to maintain a cool and comfortable habitat for the reptiles.
Unlike sea turtles that lay eggs on sandy coasts before returning to the sea, star tortoises need specific land-based conditions and only reproduce when they sense no threat. If they feel unsafe, they do not lay eggs at all.
“To support successful hatching, we have implemented protective measures including temperature regulation and specialised diets. We are excited and closely monitoring the nest and are hopeful about the arrival of five baby star tortoises,” Anand Kumar added.
The nesting has turned the deer park into a local attraction, with families, students and nature lovers flocking to the park. Many visitors have been spotted taking selfies and videos, eager to witness what they describe as a once-in-a-lifetime moment. With anticipation building around the hatching, forest officials are providing full-time protection for the nest and expect continued public interest in the coming days.
