Galapagos Turtle

The Galapagos Archipelago provides important nesting grounds for the turtles. From In November, the turtles travel from the Pacific to the Galapagos. Four different species of turtles also have permanent homes in the waters of the Galapagos Islands:

Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)

Hawksbill turtle (Eretmachelys imbricata)

Olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)

Leatherback sea turtle (Dermachelys cariacea)

Turtles can grow to become extremely big and heavy. The heaviest turtle can weigh up to 400 kg, although that is hardly noticeable when they are able to swim so quickly and swiftly. The age of turtles are still undergoing extensive research but one may assume that they can live up to 120 years old! To plan your trip better, check out our Galapagos Islands monthly animal activities poster.

Habitat and Diet

The turtles often populate the underwater world in huge numbers. However, they are generally solitary creatures and only return to their home once every two years to mate with other turtles. Female turtles often mate with more than one partner. They lay their eggs in November when it is dark. After finding their desired spot for nesting, they would dig a hole in the sand with their hind legs. After laying around 100 eggs, they would close the hold and remove traces of their track. The sun plays a crucial role in incubating the eggs. Eggs that are incubated above 30 degrees Celsius will produce females while males are produced with temperatures below 30 degrees Celsius. Around mid-April, the eggs will begin to hatch. Their biggest threat is the Galapagos hawk as vulnerable hatchlings make their way from their nest to the waters.

Species Protection

The Galapagos turtle is currently not considered to be endangered. However, they are still protected by the Galapagos marine national park.