Classic Shell Scripting

Colophon

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The animal on the cover of Classic Shell Scripting is the knobby geometric or African tent tortoise (Psammobates tentorius). The genus Psammobates literally means "sand-loving," so it isn't surprising that the tent tortoise is found only in the steppes and outer desert zones of southern Africa. All species in this genus are small, ranging in size from five to ten inches, and have yellow radiating marks on their carapace. The tent tortoise is particularly striking, with arched scutes that look like tents.

Tortoises are known for their long lifespan, and turtles and tortoises are also among the most ancient animal species alive today. They existed in the era of dinosaurs some 200 million years ago. All tortoises are temperature dependent, which means they eat only when the temperature is not too extreme. During hot summer and cold winter days, tortoises go into a torpor and stop feeding altogether. In the spring, the tent tortoise's diet consists of succulent, fibrous plants and grasses.

In captivity, this species may hibernate from June to September, and will sometimes dig itself into a burrow and remain there for quite a long time. All "sand-loving" tortoises are very difficult to maintain in captivity. They are highly susceptible ...