Volcan Darwin Giant Tortoise
Chelonoidis microphyes
Conservation Status: Endangered
Range: Galapagos Islands, 600 miles off the coast of Ecuador
Habitat: volcanic islands, from semiarid scrub and grassland to moist forest
Size: 4-6 feet long; 300-500 pounds
Diet in the Wild: Grasses, leaves, cacti, berries
Diet in the Zoo: Hay, leafy greens, browse
Lifespan: 100+ years
Giant tortoises consist of 10 closely related species or subspecies which together comprise the largest tortoises in the world. Shell size and shape vary between population found on different islands. The Galapagos islands is made up of 13 major volcanic islands, which have never been connected to other land. The original tortoise inhabitants likely arrived as castaways, probably blown to sea by tropical storms, floating on rafts of plants or aided by their natural buoyancy.
Fun Facts!
- Giant tortoise shells are made up of a honeycomb-like structure, which provides maximum strength in a lighter weight design!
- Giant tortoises reach sexual maturity until about 20-25 years, making this a factor that contributes to endangerment.