Photo:Galapagos Conservancy
The Galapagos are known as one of the most incredible natural environments on Earth.
Full of rich flora and fauna, conservationists are particularly interested inpreservingthe incredible species found there.
Among the most famous are thegiant tortoiseswhich roam the islands.
Photo:©Galápagos Conservancy
These sweet, slow-movingcreaturescome in 13 species indigenous to the island and can live extremely long lives.
Since only 15,000 across these species roam wild today, breeding programs are used to preserve these iconic reptiles.
Recently, conservationists celebrated a success with the release of 136 juvenile tortoises into the wild.
Photo:©Galápagos Conservancy
The tortoises were bred at the Arnaldo Tupiza Chamaidan Breeding and Rearing Center on Isabela Island.
Their health was top priority and each animal was chipped for tracking.
The cohort of 136 tortoises were not easy to transport.
Photo:©Galápagos Conservancy
Volunteers freed the youths, allowing them to establish new lives in the wild.
The tortoises play a critical role in the local ecosystem.
They chomp on plants and keep growth in check, while also transporting seeds around the island.
Therefore, we will continue to closely monitor the situation.
