The Galapagos tortoise actually consists of several species or forms. Each species originates from one of the specific islands which make up the Galapagos archipelago. Because of its very limited range, the Galapagos tortoise is listed as an endangered species. Because of this status, a special permit issued by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service for the keeping of endangered species is required to keep and maintain these tortoises in captivity in the US. There is an exception to this law where a Galapagos tortoise can be obtained in the state in which it will be kept. In that case, a permit is not required.