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With few natural predators and competitors for food, the Galápagos 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.

galapagos tortoise on land

Did You Know?

No Need for Speed: It would take a Galápagos tortoise over six hours to walk one mile.

Quick Facts

Latin Name:
Geochelone nigra microphyes

Range:
Galapagos Islands

Habitat:
Dry grasslands

Length:
Up to 6ft

Zoo Location:
Galapagos Tortoise Yard

Diet:
Cactus, fruit, flowers, leaves and grasses

Risk Status:
Vulnerable