Galapagos Tortoises – Houston Zoo

Matt and I usually make a point of visiting the zoo wherever we go, and Houston was no exception. The very first exhibit we stumbled upon was the Galapagos Tortoises. Water was spraying from a spout into a shallow pond, and the two tortoises seemed to be having the time of their lives.

I couldn’t believe my eyes. The spray was so powerful it would push them back, and yet they would shuffle right back in, determined to enjoy every splash. When the water finally stopped, they both lumbered out as fast as their little legs could carry them. Watching them was easily my favorite moment of the trip to the zoo. I had never seen a land turtle or tortoise have so much fun with water.

Tortoise wanting to enjoy the spray of water.

Tortoise wanting to enjoy the spray of water.

Tortoise enjoying the spray of water.

Tortoise enjoying the spray of water.

Tortoise enjoying the spray of water.

Tortoise enjoying the spray of water.

Tortoise enjoying the spray of water.

Tortoise leaving the water once the spray was done.

Tortoise leaving the water once the spray was done.

Tortoise enjoying the water spray.

Curious, I asked the zookeeper about their unusual love of water. She explained that Galapagos Tortoises can float and even swim between the islands. Of course I had to double-check. It turns out it’s true! Their shells have air pockets that help them float. They are definitely land animals at heart, but if the situation calls for it, they can swim.

Here are 3 interesting facts I learned about the Galapagos Tortoise:

1. The ideal water depth for Galapagos tortoises to swim in is between 1–3 meters.

2. Galapagos tortoises live well over 100 years in the wild, with the oldest recorded said to have lived at least 170 years.

3. They sleep for a total of about 16 hours a day. (Doesn't that sound like a wonderful option.)

There is something about seeing these slow, steady creatures delighting in a simple spray of water that just makes you smile.

If you get a chance to go to the Houston Zoo, go early and try to catch the Galapagos Tortoises enjoying the water spray. It's worth it!

If you’ve ever watched an animal do something completely unexpected or just delightfully joyful, share your story in the comments below! I’d love to hear it.

Thanks for reading The 3rd Flamingo—a blog for art lovers, creative wanderers, and anyone who’s ever made a beautiful mess.