Galapagos Tortoise
Geochelone nigra microphyes
With few natural predators and competitors for food, the Galapagos
tortoise grew over time into the largest turtle in the world. Once a
popular food source for sailors, the tortoise is now protected from
hunting. Today, introduced predators are the problem. Dogs, cats, and
rats eat the tortoise’s eggs and livestock compete for food.
Fact file:
Shell Length: Over 4 ft
Weight: 300 – 550 lbs
Habitat: Dry grasslands
Diet: Cactus, fruit, flowers, leaves, and grasses
Lifespan: Over 150 yrs
Current Range: Galapagos Islands