Rescuers transported 136 Galapagos tortoises to the island to save the species (6 photos)

Galapagos tortoises are endemic to the Galapagos Islands and are critically endangered. Rescuers from all over the world are doing everything to save this species and preserve the population. An important event recently happened: a rescue team successfully transported 136 Galapagos tortoises by helicopter to Isabela Island.





The Galapagos National Park Authority, in collaboration with the Galapagos Conservancy, successfully transported 136 Galapagos tortoises by helicopter. This species, endemic to the islands, is endangered - and rescuers are trying in every possible way to restore the population. All 136 turtles began their journey at the Tortoise Breeding and Rearing Center on Isabela Island, where they were cared for in captivity from birth. Now that the turtles have reached the age of 5-9 years, it is time to move them to their natural habitat.



After undergoing quarantine, deworming, health analysis and installation of microchips for identification, the turtles were flown by helicopter to the south of Isabela Island. This is the only place where two populations of Galapagos tortoises live at once - from the Sierra Negra volcano and the Cerro Azul volcano. Transporting turtles to the island plays a vital role in restoring ecological balance. Turtles are primary herbivores that actively participate in shaping the landscape and dispersing seeds, and therefore maintain the stability of the ecosystem.





Thanks to conservationists who paid for the helicopter transportation, the turtles were delivered to all safety standards, safe and sound. Without a helicopter, rescuers would have to transport the turtles across the sea and then carry each one on their shoulders through several kilometers of lava fields and difficult terrain. Thanks to the efforts of caring people, the turtles are finally home - now they will continue to live in their natural habitat. Scientists intend to monitor their condition, as well as come up with new ways to preserve the population.