The Texas tortoise is a terrestrial tortoise species native to the southwestern United States and Mexico. It's scientific name is Gopherus berlandieri. There are a few different synonyms for the Texas tortoise, including the Berlandier's tortoise, the Texas desert tortoise, and the Mexican desert tortoise. Despite their common name including "desert," Texas tortoises actually inhabit a variety of habitats, including grasslands, savannas, and mesquite brushlands. They are known for their distinctive patterned shells and their ability to burrow into the ground for protection. Due to habitat loss and overcollection for the pet trade, Texas tortoises are considered a threatened species.