Chelonoidis nigra - Pasture Rotation (photo intensive)
After moving a mixed group of Galapagos tortoises (Chelonoidis nigra) to a different pasture, it is interesting to note how different tortoises exhibit different behaviors and preferences.
Tortoises were moved 6-12 days prior to the following photos. They were placed in a rhomboid irregularly shaped 3 acre pasture transected by a shallow ditch containing water. Fresh water is suppled at two sites approximately 350 feet apart. Supplemental feeding is intermittently provided along one of the fence lines. The pasture had not been mowed in over a year. Grass was initially thick, of varying types and heights except where toxic weeds had been removed. Shaded areas have less undergrowth. Tortoises have disbursed in varying patterns, somewhat related to age, size and sex. The following groups of photos may illustrate same. Young males were scattered thruout in the first 48 hours. More mature females wander to the feeding area in am but sleep in a number of different areas.
One of the two faucets and water bowels near initial relaese area. Grass pretty well leveled.
Tuscon standing for a neck rub.
After moving a mixed group of Galapagos tortoises (Chelonoidis nigra) to a different pasture, it is interesting to note how different tortoises exhibit different behaviors and preferences.
Tortoises were moved 6-12 days prior to the following photos. They were placed in a rhomboid irregularly shaped 3 acre pasture transected by a shallow ditch containing water. Fresh water is suppled at two sites approximately 350 feet apart. Supplemental feeding is intermittently provided along one of the fence lines. The pasture had not been mowed in over a year. Grass was initially thick, of varying types and heights except where toxic weeds had been removed. Shaded areas have less undergrowth. Tortoises have disbursed in varying patterns, somewhat related to age, size and sex. The following groups of photos may illustrate same. Young males were scattered thruout in the first 48 hours. More mature females wander to the feeding area in am but sleep in a number of different areas.
One of the two faucets and water bowels near initial relaese area. Grass pretty well leveled.
Tuscon standing for a neck rub.