Galapagos Tortoises

The most recognized symbol of the Galapagos is the tortoise. The islands common name is Spanish for saddle; referring to the shape of the Galapagos tortoise shell.  Naturalists believe Tortoises arrived in the islands clinging to a piece of driftwood from a river mouth along the Pacific Coast. 

Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge Auto Tour

The other day I took my first drive on the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge Auto Tour.  It's a 7.5 miles gorgeous drive.  Open from 7AM to 7PM with the last day this year being October 5.  Hope you get the opportunity to visit this beautiful area. I've included a couple of photos from that day.

Monarch butterfly on thistle plant.

Great Blue Heron

Lonesome George

Lonesome George is the last living tortoise of the Pinta Island tortoise.  So far Lonesome George has not mated with any other tortoises but the Galapagos National Park is providing two new females partners for George this year.  George is estimated to be between 90 to 100 years old.  He lives on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos Islands.  Yes, Lonesome George is believed to be named after the actor George Gobel.