Galapagos Tortoise

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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