Today was monumental for the Zoo. We received three Galapagos tortoises this morning from the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, TX and placed them in their new home on exhibit. It's monumental because these animals will live to be 150 years old! That means your children will bring their children to see these gentle giants. The timing couldn't have been more perfect, as we get ready to celebrate Stop Extinction Day this Saturday at the Zoo.

Do you recall the statue of the tortoise at the Zoo? That is a life-sized replica of a full grown Galapagos tortoise. Just think how much fun it will be when these tortoises are full grown!

Until then, great care must be taken in raising a Galapagos tortoise. They can't grow too quickly or it will cause health issues later in their long life.

The tortoises will be named Harvey, Betty and Hales. They were named after two special Zoo benefactors who funded many of the Zoo's new animals over the years.