Aldabra Giant Tortoise
Aldabrachelys gigantea
The Aldabra Giant Tortoise is the second largest species of tortoise on the planet. Males are larger than females and have longer, thicker tails.
This species inhabits mangrove swamps, coastal dunes and scrub but prefer grassland. Primarily grazers and browsers their diet consists mostly of grasses and woody plants but will also eat insects and carrion.
Did you know: As the largest animal on the island Aldabra Giant Tortoise, fill a niche very similar to the one occupied by elephants. Like elephants, they can shape the habitat by knocking over small trees and shrubs while looking for food. This creates pathways and clearings in the landscape for other animals.
Conservation
Aldabra Giant Tortoises were once found on all the islands in the Western Indian Ocean. Their population declined significantly between the 17th and 19th centuries due to hunting and loss of habitat. To help conserve the species, they are now protected against international trade and several captive breeding programs have been established.
- Lifespan
- 80-120 years.
- Length
- 90-120 cm
- Weight
- 150-250 kg
- Eggs per nest
- 9-25
- Range
- The only surviving wild population is on the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles. But have been introduced to few other islands.
- Conservation status
- Vulnerable
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