Ecuador
Galápagos Giant Tortoise
On the Galápagos Islands, giant tortoises wander through grasslands and forests. Different islands are home to tortoises with different shell shapes.
Why is it special?
These gentle giants live only in the Galápagos Islands, far out in the Pacific Ocean.
Tortoises on different islands can look different, especially their shells.
How does it live?
A tortoise munches on grasses, leaves, fruit, and cactus. It can rest in a muddy pond to cool off.
As it walks and eats, it spreads seeds and helps shape the places where it lives.
Amazing facts
Galápagos giant tortoises are the largest living tortoises.
They can live for more than 100 years.
Quick facts
- Galápagos giant tortoises are the largest living tortoises.
- They can live for more than 100 years.
- Some have domed shells, while others have shells shaped a little like a saddle.
- A tortoise can pull its head and legs safely inside its shell.