The Villages Local Tours Study Group went to the Tortoise Ranch in Campbell, CA on Friday October 18. On a regular street, behind a regular house there is a hidden treasure… greeting us was a plethora of tortoises and an amazing collection of lawn art. The group heard an informative talk about tortoises from the owner, Terry, who told us about the three different species of tortoises that live there. Did you know that you can tell the difference between a male and a female just by looking at the length of their tails and the shape of their undersides? (A male has a longer tail and a convex abdomen). We were told that the tortoises have distinct personalities, and one (Georgiana) was particularly fond of Terry and followed him around like a puppy. The collection of tortoises at the ranch grew from purchases, donations from zoos and as abandoned tortoise pets. Having a tortoise is quite a commitment because of their exceptionally long lives. We were able to feed these gentle giants lettuce, celery and carrots (with tongs) and even ride on their sturdy backs. The visit was an unmitigated delight for the group! For more information about The Villages Study Groups Club, visit https://studygroups.vgcc.club.
