With an average lifespan of 150 years, Galápagos giant tortoises are the oldest reptiles on planet earth. And they really are giants — full grown adults can exceed 550 pounds. They also happen to be endangered and have become a flagship species for conservation efforts in their isolated home range. It was a great experience to be in their presence in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos. Nikon D800 with Nikkor 17-35mm lens (at 22mm) ISO 400, f/7.1 at 1/1000th of a second.
What a great shot! Your image has documented potentially 2,200 pounds of Galápagos giant tortoises & 600 years of life in those 4 giant creatures. Nicely done. It’s not everyday we get to see such a gathering of 4 of these amazing giants.
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With an average lifespan of 150 years, Galápagos giant tortoises are the oldest reptiles on planet earth. And they really are giants — full grown adults can exceed 550 pounds. They also happen to be endangered and have become a flagship species for conservation efforts in their isolated home range. It was a great experience to be in their presence in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos. Nikon D800 with Nikkor 17-35mm lens (at 22mm) ISO 400, f/7.1 at 1/1000th of a second.
550 is a good, healthy weight for a tortise. those skinny tortises you see all ove the tv today don’t do a damn thing for me.
One of my favorite photos ever! Just incredible!
Thanks Alan. Appreciate it. Where can I see your latest photos? Still doing the night time thing?
Stormy sky for an endangered species. Another great environmental shot!
Thanks Rachel. Yes, it was quite magical that afternoon with the stormy sky. I love days like that for shooting.
What a great shot! Your image has documented potentially 2,200 pounds of Galápagos giant tortoises & 600 years of life in those 4 giant creatures. Nicely done. It’s not everyday we get to see such a gathering of 4 of these amazing giants.
Quite a thing to think about. Thanks Sue.
I agree with Alan, one of my favorites absolutely beautiful!
Thanks Christine. I really appreciate it.
A giant tortois spa! Awesome photo!