Meet Goliath, The Largest Tortoise Ever Recorded in Florida

Meet Goliath, a Galapagos tortoise (Chelonoidis nigra) whose ridiculously large size earned him the title of the largest tortoise ever recorded.

Residing at the Life Fellowship Bird Sanctuary in Seffner, Florida, USA, from 1960–2002, Goliath has become famous due to his incredible proportions. Let’s explore some fascinating facts about Goliath and other Galapagos tortoises.

Goliath the Tortoise

galapagos giant tortoise — Mfield, Matthew Field, via Wikimedia Commons

Goliath was aptly named, being a giant among tortoises. Goliath reached an astonishing 135.8 cm (4 ft 5 in) in length, 102 cm (3 ft 4 in) in width, 68.5 cm (2 ft 3 in) in height, and weighed a staggering 417 kg (920 lb). Unfortunately, Goliath passed away in 2002 in Florida at a relatively young age, at least for tortoises, at 42 years old. It seems his death was due to natural causes.

Galapagos Tortoises

Galapagos tortoises, unsurprisingly native to the Galapagos Islands, are known for their exceptional size and longevity. The Galapagos islands’ unique ecosystem has allowed these reptiles to grow to very large sizes, particularly because they don’t have natural predators there. Goliath, although a Galapagos tortoise, resided in Florida at a sanctuary.

Physical Characteristics

giant tortoise — Image by Joshua J Cotten via Unsplash

Galapagos tortoises are characterized by their large saddle-shaped shells, which is shaped to allow them to reach high vegetation. The shell’s design also serves to regulate their body temperature and protect their soft skin.

Behavior & Diet

Galapagos tortoises are slow, calm, and placid gentle giants who spend much of their days resting and relaxing. They are herbivores who eat leaves, grasses, and fruits, of which prickly pears seem to be their favorite snack. Interestingly, they can store food and water inside their body for long periods, allowing them to go without eating or drinking for up to a year.

Lifespan

One of the most remarkable things about Galapagos tortoises is their extraordinary lifespan. Some individuals can live upwards of 100 years, with those living in captivity usually able to live longer. This is one of the reasons that it’s confusing as to why Goliath passed away so “young.”

Wrapping Up

Goliath’s story is a fascinating one – especially considering that his life was cut seemingly so short. Perhaps size isn’t everything?

Thank you for following along with this article –

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Jen Fitschen, BSc Computer Science and Oceanography

Author at Animals Around The Globe. BSc Computer Science and Oceanography

I am passionate about all animals and wildlife, especially their conservation and preservation. I grew up fascinated by the natural environment and feel most at peace surrounded by untouched nature. I live by sharing this passion with others through diving, as I am also a freediving guide - stepping into another realm, sharing the ocean with all of the intriguing marine life.

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