Can Star tortoises show affection?

Question
I have a 4 months old Star tortoise. He does the cutest thing after i feed him. he snuggles up against my neck or goes and hides in my hair. It has just been a month since I have had him but he doesn't seem shy at all. he loves it (i think he does) when i touch the area under his face. you think these are the ways he shows affection?

Answer
Hi Neha,

Tortoises can't really show affection in the ways that people can, or even dogs and cats.  But they can recognize people and show preference for them.  Often the behavior you see in tortoises is motivated by an instinctual desire to hide (especially with hatchlings and juveniles) or to seek out warmth or shelter.  What your tortoise is doing isn't because of true affection, but if he was afraid of you he might act differently, so you can be assured that he does seem to trust you.  Many tortoises enjoy having their heads or necks scratched or rubbed, too, and it sounds like your tortoise is one of those that do.