ORIGIN:
Galápagos Islands

HABITAT:
Coastal areas, grasslands, and arid regions

HEIGHT/WEIGHT:
250 to 500 lbs.
Length: 3-5 ft.
Height: 1 - 1.5 ft.

DIET:
Herbivores, primarily feeding on grasses, leaves, fruits, and cacti

PREDATORS:
Adult Galápagos tortoises have few natural predators due to their large size and protective shells. However, young tortoises are vulnerable to predators such as rats, dogs, and other invasive species introduced to the islands.

NATURAL DEFENSES:
They rely on their hard, domed shells for protection against predators. The shell acts as a barrier, making it difficult for most predators to harm them. Additionally, they can retract their heads and legs into their shells for added defense.

REPRODUCTION:
Galápagos tortoises reach sexual maturity between 20-30 years and lay 2 to 16 eggs per breeding season. After incubation, the hatchlings are independent but vulnerable to predators. Their slow reproduction makes them vulnerable to threats.

THREATS:
Introduced predators, habitat loss, and climate change

LIFE EXPECTANCY:
Over 100 years, with some individuals reaching up to 150 years in the wild.