Volcán Alcedo giant tortoises, Isabela Island, Galápagos, Ecuador

© Tui De Roy/Minden Picture

Home sweet volcano. Volcán Alcedo giant tortoises

Come to the Galápago Islands! These islands captured are named the Galápagos giant tortoises. They are only found on the Galápagos Islands and can grow over 2 metres long. Known for their large size, with some individuals reaching over 270 kilograms, they have a distinctive dome-shaped shell, and the carapace may vary in colour and shape among individuals. Their population on Isabela Island has faced challenges, including habitat loss and new species, but conservation efforts are in place to protect and preserve them. These tortoises are mainly herbivores, spending most of their day engaged in activities like feeding, resting and gathering around muddy pools. Remarkably, they opt to sleep in the open at night.