They do seem to be grandpas, being the oldest living tortoise with the oldest known individual lived to be 152. It is also not surprising that they are also the largest tortoises in the world. However, their hatchlings are incredibly tiny compared to the full grown adults. I guess they have a lot of time to grow up.
 |
Australia's first Galapagos Tortoise hatchling Source: zooborns.com
|
The Galapagos islands were discovered in 1535 by Spanish sailors who named them after their amazing tortoises, the Spanish word for tortoise is galapago. There are only about 11 species of tortoises left on the Galapagos islands, down from 15. This was due to hunting by pirates, whalers and traders during the 17th to 19th century and only about 15,000 tortoises are estimated to remain today. Introduced species such as dogs, cats, pigs, rats and cows are a continuous threat to their food supply and eggs.
Galapagos tortoises' are now listed as endangered. However, the efforts of captive breeding, for example by the Charles Darwin Research Station, has had positive effects.
Galapagos tortoises can now be seen at various zoos and wildlife parks all over the world.
So, if you want to show your support for these friendly giants, you can adopt them on zoo's websites such as Taronga zoo in Sydney, Australia.
 |
| I Saw this one at Taronga Zoo |
|
On another note, I recently discovered this website where you can upload your photos of wild animals/plants/insects and become a little local scientist yourself.
The website is called Project noah. Visit it
here.
Also, I will be starting to interview photographers and biologists about their projects and passion for wildlife and I will also be having photography features.
But otherwise, Enjoy!
4 comments:
yay for features and interviews!
I'm glad you're excited :)
Is Darwin's turtle still alive?
That is actually possible but however, unlikely.
Post a Comment