The Sulcata is the third largest species of
tortoise in the world after the Galapagos
tortoise, and Aldabra Giant Tortoise; and the
largest of the mainland tortoises. Adults are
usually 18 inches (45 cm) in shell length, and
weigh 70 to 100 pounds. Specimens with 24
to 36 inch long (60-90 cm) shells weighing
150 pounds (70 kg) are not unknown. They
grow from hatchling size (2-3 inches) very
quickly, reaching 6-10 inches (15-25 cm)
within the first few years of their lives. The
oldest known of this species was 56 years
old although it is believed they can live up to
about 80 years.