Not immediately apparent as reptiles, Galápagos tortoises are known for their long lifespan, with some individuals recorded to live more than 150 years.

They are herbivores whose diet primarily consists of grasses, leaves, and fruit. They are also known to eat cactus pads, which provide a source of hydration. These tortoises are generally slow-moving and spend much of their day resting to conserve energy. They can go without food or water for long periods, a crucial adaptation for survival in their arid environment.

The shell is highly domed and protects predators. The shape and size of the shell can vary between different subspecies and islands. Females lay eggs in nests they dig in the ground. The eggs hatch after an incubation period of around 4-8 months, depending on environmental conditions.

As their name suggests, Galápagos tortoises are native to the Galapagos Islands, an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean located about 1,000 kilometres (620 miles) off the coast of Ecuador. They inhabit various island environments, from arid lowlands to humid highlands. Different subspecies are adapted to the specific conditions of their home islands.