Some of the Zoo’s oldest—and slowest—residents are the Galápagos tortoises. Several have been with us since 1928, making them the oldest residents in the Zoo. We estimate their age to be well over 100! Numbers painted on each animal’s shell help us identify them: white-numbered tortoises are males, red numbers indicate females. Each tortoise has its own unique personality: some are shy, while others are more interactive with their keepers, stretching up for a neck rub or eating right out of their hand. These behemoths are attracted to the colors found in flowers, a favorite food—reds, yellows, pinks, and oranges. Try wearing your brightest clothing and see if you get the attention of a Galápagos tortoise!
Did you know? A Galápagos tortoise can go without eating or drinking for up to a year, because it can store food and water in its body.
