Aldabra Giant Tortoise

Geochelone gigantea

The Aldabra Giant Tortoise (Geochelone gigantea) is one of the largest tortoises in the world and is native to the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles. With a distinctive domed shell that can reach lengths of up to 1.2 meters (4 feet) and weigh over 250 kilograms (550 pounds), these tortoises boast an impressive size. Their shells, often dark gray or brown, provide a protective armor and support their herbivorous diet, primarily consisting of grasses, leaves, and woody plant material. Known for their long lifespans, some Aldabra Giant Tortoises can live over 100 years, making them a symbol of timelessness and resilience in the animal kingdom. Social creatures by nature, they are often seen in groups, displaying gentle dispositions. These tortoises play a critical ecological role in their habitat; through their grazing, they help maintain the vegetation balance and disperse seeds across the atoll. Their conservation status is currently listed as Vulnerable due to habitat loss and introduced species, highlighting the importance of continued conservation efforts to protect these magnificent creatures.