Testudo Vandenburghi Collection

Alcedo giant tortoises (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) group resting in water to keep cool, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos

Alcedo giant tortoises (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) gathering together to drink from drizzle puddles on flat lava during dry season, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) resting during dry season, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos, Ecuador

Detail of hind toes of Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi), Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Darwin's Small ground finch (Geospiza fuliginosa) cleaning Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) of ticks, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) walking around caldera rim with fog rolling in during dry season, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Alcedo giant tortoises (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) drinking from fog-drip puddles under mossy trees on caldera rim during dry season, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi), Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island. This is where the largest extant population exists

Alcedo giant tortoises (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) and volcanic landscape with fumeroles, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos

Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) drinking, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos

Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) and volcanic habitat with fumeroles, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos

Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) pair mating, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos

Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi), Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos

Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) male mating with female while squabbling with another tortoise. Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos

Alcedo Galapagos tortoise (Chelonoidis nigra vandenburghi) group wallowing in mud, Alcedo Volcan, Isabela Island, Galapagos

Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi), group bathing. Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos. 2017

Alcedo giant tortoise (Chelonoidis vandenburghi) group resting in pool, Alcedo Volcano, Isabela Island, Galapagos

Alcedo Galapagos tortoise (Chelonoidis nigra vandenburghi) walking, Alcedo Volcan, Isabela Island, Galapagos

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"Discover the Fascinating World of Testudo vandenburghi: Alcedo Giant Tortoises" Witness the incredible sight of Alcedo giant tortoises, scientifically known as Chelonoidis vandenburghi, as they find respite from the scorching heat by resting in water. These majestic creatures have adapted to their environment on Isabela Island, Galapagos Islands, Ecuador. Take a closer look at their hind toes - a unique feature that aids them in navigating the rugged terrain of Alcedo Volcano. Darwin's Small ground finch can also be seen diligently cleaning these tortoises, ensuring they are free from ticks and parasites. Marvel at the grandeur of these giant tortoises against the backdrop of Alcedo Volcano. Their presence amidst volcanic landscapes with fumaroles creates an awe-inspiring scene that showcases nature's wonders. Observe another behavior as these magnificent creatures wallow in mud for both cooling and protection purposes. They gather together to bathe and rest in pools during both day and night, finding solace within their watery sanctuary. Intriguingly, even during dry seasons when resources are scarce, you will witness them gathering around drizzle puddles on flat lava surfaces to quench their thirst. This remarkable adaptation demonstrates their resilience and survival instincts. Immerse yourself in this captivating world where Testudo vandenburghi reigns supreme. Explore their habitats and observe how they interact with each other and their surroundings. These ancient giants offer us a glimpse into a truly extraordinary species thriving amidst adversity.