DavidMcNab

One of the most iconic animals in the world is the giant Galapagos tortoise. Known as one of the longest-living vertebrates in the world, these animals are magnificent and awe-inspiring. If only they could tell us their stories. This giant beast is well over 150kg (330lbs) and has probably been roaming the island of Santa Cruz for more than 100 years. He eats, sleeps, and leaves droppings all day long. Tortoises will eat almost any kind of vegetation and they do so in great quantities. They store large amounts of water and food, giving them the ability to go without either for up to a year. The giant Galapagos tortoises are believed to be descended from African tortoises, having arrived here on floating rafts of vegetation. Few animals would survive a trip across the ocean like this, but their ability to go without fresh water or food for very prolonged periods makes this possible. Giant tortoises have no means of defence from predators except to pull their heads into their shells. Their solid shells and armoured legs make it difficult for even a determined creature to harm them and they can simply sleep and outwait any predator. The longevity of this species is also what makes it possible for enough of the eggs to reach maturity. The young are easily predated by birds, dogs, rats, and other creatures and it is only the fact that a mature female lays many eggs over her lifetime that makes it possible for their populations to be maintained. This giant male is making his way across a bike path without any concern. The locals carefully make their way around the animals, respecting the need for distance. If a tortoise wanders onto the roadway, traffic will stop until the tortoise is safely across. Galapaganians live in harmony with nature and with the animals that have been here on the islands long before humans.

This camel is completely relaxed as he spends the day at a fair in Chilliwack, British Columbia. He's very comfortable with people and he happily allows anyone to pet him and scratch his ears. He'll also happily take a handful of fresh, green hay. He munches contentedly as the people passing by stop to get a close look. Camels are sturdy mammals known for their distinctive physical characteristics, which enable them to thrive in harsh desert environments. Camels are large, with adult camels standing about 6 to 7 feet (1.8 to 2.1 meters) tall at the shoulder. They can weigh between 880 to 1,320 pounds (400 to 600 kg). One of the most distinguishing features is the hump on their back. There are two main species of camels. A dromedary (Arabian) Camel has one hump. A Bactrian camel has two humps. A camel's humps store fat, which can be converted into energy and water when food is scarce. Camels have large, tough mouths that are well-suited for eating thorny desert vegetation. They have slit-like nostrils that can close to protect against sand and dust. Their eyes are large, with long eyelashes that help keep sand out, and a third eyelid (nictitating membrane) that provides additional protection. Camels have long, powerful legs, which help them walk long distances and carry heavy loads. Their broad, flat feet are specially adapted for walking on sand, with tough, leathery pads that prevent sinking. Camels have thick fur that helps insulate them from both the heat and cold. In the summer, they shed much of this fur to keep cool. Their coat color ranges from light brown to beige, providing natural camouflage in desert environments. Camels are highly adapted to conserve water. They can drink large amounts of water quickly (up to 40 gallons in one go) and can survive for long periods without drinking. Camels can tolerate body temperature fluctuations that would be fatal to most other animals, which helps them avoid sweating and thus conserve water. These characteristics make camels well-suited to life in arid and semi-arid regions, where they have been used by humans for transportation, food, and other resources for thousands of years.

Humpback whale mothers are devoted parents that take good care of their babies. This mother in Tonga has come here to give birth in the safe waters where orcas don't follow. Her baby is growing rapidly and they will soon make the trip to colder waters to feed. The calf will need to be big enough and strong enough to outswim predators. The mother will feed and protect her baby until he has doubled his weight. These lucky swimmers have found that she is curious enough to come over and inspect them. The baby is playful and curious as well, and he rolls and spins as he invites the swimmers to play with him. A close encounter with a trusting humpback whale mother and her calf is an experience that these lucky swimmers will never forget.