The desert tortoises live approximately 30 to 50 years; they grow slowly and generally have low reproductive rates.

The desert tortoise is growing slowly, often taking 16 years or longer to reach about 8 inches (20 cm) in length.

The annual death rate of adults is typically a few percent, but is much higher for young desert tortoises.

Two case studies outlined the spread of disease in desert tortoises.

What are the causes of immunity exhibited by some desert tortoises?

The desert tortoise is one of many species in the protected area.

The southern tip of the wilderness provides critical habitat for the desert tortoise.

The western half of the wilderness area provides critical habitat for the threatened desert tortoise.

This is an occasional food plant for the desert tortoise.

The federally threatened desert tortoise can also be found in the wilderness.