GALAPAGOS GIANT TORTOISE
The Galapagos giant tortoises are the best-known animal of the islands; they are the iconic symbol of the archipelago such was the famous Lonesome George. Growing up to 500 pounds, these gentle giants have adapted to live in the harsh environment of the Galapagos by foraging through cactus, vines, grass, and fruits. Their bodies can store water and food efficiently, along with their slow motion which helps them to maintain energy for extended periods of time.
There are two different shapes on the carapaces (shells) of these animals: the domed shaped and the saddleback shape. They are an excellent example of adaptation, where the domed shaped could find food on the ground, and the saddleback needed more space to raise the neck to find food upwards depending on the food supply of each island.
Currently, their populations are vulnerable, having some of the original species extinct due to the introduction of foreign species to the islands in previous decades. Moreover, the Galapagos National Park has worked vigorously on captive breeding and re-introduction programs to maintain a healthy population of this species and eradicate non-native species.
There are opportunities to see giant tortoises in all our itineraries in the Galapagos Legend and the Coral yachts.
