Reptile & Amphibian Forums

Hi
I am looking for close up photos of an adult Galapagos Tortoise head. I need them for reference for a personal project. I would not post or show them in any way. If you can help me out let me know here or off line and we can work out any particulars

thanks
joel

I took this at the Animal Kingdom.

Try doing a keyword search in Yahoo or Google under "images" or in the photo gallery on here "Galapogas Tortoise" and see what you find.

Ciao'

Giovanni

I am looking for closer pictures where I can see scales. I have searched the web.
Another question too- the nicked and chipped beak, is that a result of being captive or is it an age thing. The mouths of the tortoises at the SD Zoo are all beat up.
thanks again

>I am looking for closer pictures where I can see scales. I have >searched the web.

What type of scales are you interested in? Chelonians are pretty smooth, almost elephant like in the texture of their flesh, with exception to the top sides of their front limbs.

>Another question too- the nicked and chipped beak, is that a >result of being captive or is it an age thing. The mouths of >the tortoises at the SD Zoo are all beat up.
>thanks again

Could be numberous things, could be just chewing on white rocks, clamping down on metal tubes the vet administers, who knows. But beaks are like nails, they repair themselves from what I've seen in my experiences.

Take a look at this photo I scanned from an old galapogas brochure some time back, and I'm not sure from where. I'm sure this is an extinct saddleback tortoise, because of the neck extension.

Ciao'

Giovanni

Again, not sure where I found it so use at yer own risk.

Ciao,

Giovanni

great picture, thanks for finding it. That is what I am looking for, head shots and the scales on the top of the head. Like you said their skin is similar to elephants and the scales wear down and fade.
So it sounds like from your reply that the banged up beaks at the zoo are from a captive life and the wild one's would not be so damaged?

I would go as far as saying "captive" other than that particual captive situation. I doubt those chelonians are captive bred.

Ciao'

Giovanni

I have a couple of galaps and I will get another in the spring. If you live near northern California, you are welcome to come over and take some pics yourself.
Elliott

Elliot,
I live in the bay area. email me off the forum so we can hook up. I would love to get some pictures
thanks