North Island also welcomed more Giant Aldabra Tortoises to the family in 2003. Historically there were many tortoises on the Island as per records from passing ships, but only 3 remained in 1997 (including iconic Brutus who is believed to be 160-180 years old!). 12-15 tortoises were donated from Mahé in 2003, with a further 7 from Anonyme Island in 2007 and 38 from Silhouette Island in 2011.
