The desert tortoise is the official reptile of California and Nevada.
The desert tortoise is characterized by its high domed, greenish to dark brown colored shell and heavy, claw-like limbs suitable for digging. The protective shell allows the tortoise to live between 50 to 80 years without harm. Before drawing the tortoise, find a picture to decide upon its position and image. To create a realistic drawing, dedicated concentration, patience, and a steady hand are helpful.
Instructions
1. Draw a large oval in the middle of a page to represent the shape of the body and shell. Draw a much smaller oval on one side of the larger oval to act as the head of this particular animal. Sketch out three medium-sized ovals on the bottom of the body, as these guidelines will help to define each of the legs.
2. Take note of how the shell separates the upper part of the tortoise's body from the bottom part. Sketch a curved line lightly, then darken it to divide these two sections.
3. Draw rigid lines to reflect the wrinkled texture of each individual leg of the desert tortoise. Sketch out half oval-like shapes at the bottom of the legs to represent each of the toes. Draw small, wrinkled lines inside each of the legs to show the joints.
4. Use the same wrinkled line technique to connect the chest and neck to the tortoise's head. This particular feature moves up between both of the front legs, draping down to create the effect of slacking skin. Draw small lines inside the skin to create a three-dimensional, wrinkled look.
5. Split the head of the tortoise in the middle with a horizontal line to represent the mouth of this animal. Draw two very small ovals just above the mouth for nostrils. Draw two small ovals, parallel to each other above the nostrils for eyes. Sketch a small circle inside each oval for pupils.
6. Divide the upper part of the tortoise's body or shell into evenly spaced, pentagon shapes. This textured pattern gives the tortoise its hardened defense. Start with light pencil strokes and then darken them to define the lines.
7. Trace all intended lines with an ink pen. Do not outline any of the guidelines used to create this image. Let all ink marks dry on the piece of paper, then completely erase any remaining lines on the page.
