The once-a-year weigh-in for the four Giant Tortoises was a great success, with all four slowly taking turns lumbering up onto the scale.

Their size demands a special scale set-up!

Keeper Raelene Hobbs explains that for this special event the Reptile Department borrows a heavy-duty scale from Wild Sea, where it is usually used to weigh Australian Fur Seals.

The Zoo's Works Department has assisted by designing and welding a weighing platform to sit on top of the scale, with ramps for the Giant Tortoises to get up onto the platform to be weighed.

Both females have gained since they were weighed last year, but both males have dropped a few kilos.

Wilbur weighed in at 190kg, Little John at 191kg, Miranda at 181kg and Jean at 79kg.

Raelene explains that the new weights are well within the expected parameters.  She adds that the males are very active during summer and usually gain weight in winter, when they are in semi-hibernation.

Wilbur, Little John, Miranda, and Jean all arrived at Melbourne Zoo as adults, but Giant Tortoises continue to grow even as adults, so it is important to monitor any weight changes.

The data is recorded as part of the ongoing health monitoring which is carried out in all areas of the Zoo.

Raelene has been treat- training the Giant Tortoises for several years so when they see the red training ball they know that their favourite fruits are on hand.

The training is invaluable for managing this species, as otherwise moving such heavy individuals from place to place would be extremely difficult.

Raelene adds that they are especially keen on eating at this time of year, because they are able to metabolise their food better during warmer weather.