Aldabra Giant Tortoise

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Scientific Name:

Geochelone gigantea

Distribution

Aldabra Atoll , Seychelles, Madagascar, Tanzania

Diet:

Mainly herbivore. Grasses, flowers, fruit. Sometimes carrion.

Facts

Habitat: Grasslands, coastal dunes

 

Incubation: 4-14 eggs, incubation 3.5-8 months depending on the temperature of the nest.

 

Social structure: Large groups

 

Weight: 250kg max

 

Dimensions: 140cm max

 

Lifespan: 150

 

IUCN Status: Vulnerable

 

Estimated population in the wild: 100,000

 

Threats: Destruction of habitat, illegal pet trade, introduction of predators (rats and cats) on eggs and hatchlings and competitors in grazing such as goats.

 

Did you know that:

1. Aldabras are the world’s second-largest tortoise species.
2. They are excellent swimmers, being naturally buoyant.
3. Giant Tortoises are the longest living vertebrate animals.
4. They knock over small trees and shrubs to obtain leaves.
5. It is noted that most mating attempts are not successful.