The desert tortoise is primarily found in Desert habitats of the Basin and Range.

The desert tortoise is well-adapted to the arid desert environments typical of the Basin and Range Province, especially in areas like the Mojave and Sonoran deserts. These tortoises thrive in sandy, rocky soils and sparse vegetation, which provide the ideal conditions for burrowing and finding food sources like grasses, wildflowers, and cacti. The tortoise’s ability to withstand high temperatures and conserve water helps it survive the harsh desert climate. Its desert habitat offers essential cover and nutrients, making it the primary environment for this species in the Basin and Range region.