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The Sounds of Slow Love
Giant tortoises make loud groaning sounds during mating that can be heard from far away — and mating sessions can last several hours.
Giant Tortoise
Chelonoidis nigra
These slow-moving reptiles have surprisingly loud and prolonged mating rituals.
Vital Stats
🏷️ TypeReptile (tortoise)
🌍 Found InGalápagos Islands, Seychelles — volcanic islands
📏 SizeUp to 1.2m, 250-400kg
⏳ Lifespan100-150+ years
🔞 Sexual Maturity20-40 years
💕 Mating SystemPolygynous — males compete by stretching necks
📅 Mating SeasonDecember - August (wet to dry season)
🤰 GestationEggs incubate 4-8 months
👶 Offspring2-16 eggs per clutch
🍆 Penis Size12 cm
⏱️ Sex Duration3 hours
🔬 Notable AnatomyMales make loud bellowing moans during mating; mating can last several hours
⚖️ Sexual DimorphismMales much larger with longer necks and larger tails