Galápagos Islands Tortoise

Native to the Galapagos archipelago off the coast of Ecuador in South America, Galapagos Islands Tortoises are known for their enormous size and remarkable longevity. These gentle giants have captured the fascination of scientists and nature enthusiasts alike for centuries. The Galapagos Islands Tortoise played a significant role in Charles Darwin's development of the theory of evolution by natural selection.

Throughout history, Galapagos Islands Tortoises faced significant threats due to human activities. Overexploitation, mainly by whalers and sailors in the 18th and 19th centuries, nearly drove some species to extinction. Additionally, the introduction of invasive species like rats and goats led to habitat destruction and competition for food. Despite conservation efforts and strict regulations on the islands, the survival of these ancient creatures remains uncertain due to ongoing challenges posed by climate change.