A tortoise is neither a mammal nor an amphibian. It is actually a reptile. Tortoises belong to the family Testudinidae and are known for their hard, protective shells. Unlike mammals, which are warm-blooded and typically have hair or fur, tortoises are cold-blooded and have scaly skin. Additionally, unlike amphibians, which live both in water and on land during different stages of their life, tortoises are primarily land-dwelling creatures.
Reptiles, including tortoises, are characterized by their scaly skin, cold-blooded nature, and the fact that they lay eggs on land. These features clearly differentiate them from mammals and amphibians. So, when you see a tortoise, you’re looking at a fascinating example of a reptile!