Turtleopard

Discovery LocationGalapagos Islands

Lead ResearcherAesop

Field Report Summary

An island endemic, the Turtleopard has evolved a unique hunting strategy: it mimics a basking rock until prey approaches, then strikes with feline reflexes. Its metabolic rate is slow, allowing it to survive long periods without food. The shell provides thermal regulation in the hot sun.

Physical Description

Leopard with a domed tortoise shell fused to its spine.

Habitat

Volcanic Scrub

Dietary Behavior

Carnivore

Evolutionary Origin

Island gigantism/defense

Behavioral Notes

Purrs cause the shell to resonate like a drum.