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600 and 400 Pound Tortoises Move to the Bronx Zoo

By Natalie Musumeci | August 14, 2014 3:31pm
 A pair of gigantic Aldabra tortoises have moved into the Bronx Zoo.
Aldabra Tortoises at the Bronx Zoo
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BRONX — Two gigantic tortoises — the biggest in the city — have moved into the Bronx Zoo.

The pair of male Aldabra tortoises, dubbed Rocket and Abdul, weigh a whopping 600 pounds and 400 pounds, respectively and are believed to be between 100 and 150 years old.

The animals — which could live more than 200 years — are now living at a new permanent exhibit which opened last week at the zoo, complete with lush vegetation and a fresh water pool.

Native to the islands of Aldabra Atoll in the Republic of Seychelles, Aldabra tortoises are considered vulnerable to extinction. They are one of only two remaining species of giant tortoises, along with the Galapagos tortoise.

The animals are primarily land-based but can swim, and have a large domed shell, thick limbs, and are covered in bony scales.

Aldabra Tortoises at the Bronx Zoo
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Wildlife Conservation Society

Both reptiles came to the The Bronx Zoo, which is run by the Wildlife Conservation Society, from other zoos, officials said.