Michael231
Member
It is well known that yellow foot tortoises (Chelonoidis denticulata) get to a medium size in nature compared to most tortoises (averaging 30-45 cm in most locales). However, in almost every corner of the species range there seems to be a tortoise or two that grows to immense proportions. Specimens reaching 70-80 cm are not unheard of both in range and in US captive collections. However, the record for this species size is almost beyond belief. The individual at the St. Louis Zoo that is 94 cm and exactly 200 pounds (90 kg) holds the record for size. While she is the largest individual, the male that lives with her is not far behind at 154 pounds (70 kg).
Where did these two St. Louis Zoo tortoise come from though? There seems to be a general idea that they are Peruvian in origin? What is the basis for that? When one goes to the zoo's main webpage they don't mention how large their tortoises are which I find somewhat odd given that they could potentially be a big attraction!
It would be very interesting to track down the locales of these individuals!
-Image of St. Louis zoo female with Aldabra in the background...
From: https://www.google.com/search?q=st+...AUIECgB&biw=1280&bih=610#imgrc=0r36aTf04Or-yM:
For more pictures of giant yellowfoots and redfoots go to @jabutipaulistano on Instagram...
Where could these individuals have come from....
Any thoughts?
Where did these two St. Louis Zoo tortoise come from though? There seems to be a general idea that they are Peruvian in origin? What is the basis for that? When one goes to the zoo's main webpage they don't mention how large their tortoises are which I find somewhat odd given that they could potentially be a big attraction!
It would be very interesting to track down the locales of these individuals!
-Image of St. Louis zoo female with Aldabra in the background...
From: https://www.google.com/search?q=st+...AUIECgB&biw=1280&bih=610#imgrc=0r36aTf04Or-yM:
For more pictures of giant yellowfoots and redfoots go to @jabutipaulistano on Instagram...
Where could these individuals have come from....
Any thoughts?