Indian Star Tortoise

Walk slowly through open scrub in the early morning or late afternoon — the shell pattern is excellent camouflage against dappled grass and leaf litter, so look for movement rather than shape.

Plan field days around Jan–Dec: light is often strongest at dawn and dusk, when many mammals and birds are most active. Work with a naturalist who knows local movement patterns — they will position you ethically while improving your odds of a encounter in Blackbuck National Park (Velavadar).