Giant tortoises return to Galápagos island after nearly 200 years
The native species was driven to extinction by sailors in the 1800s. Now, 158 juvenile giant tortoises have been reintroduced to the island.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"This long-anticipated moment gives hope, not just for the future of Floreana, but for the future restoration of islands around the world."
— Dr Jen Jones , Executive
"I get goosebumps thinking about it."
— Dr. Penny Becker , Executive
"The Floreana Ecological Restoration Project represents one of the greatest challenges undertaken by the Galápagos National Park."
— Lorena Sánchez , Executive
"Their return shows what is possible when a community leads and many partners come together with a shared purpose."
— Verónica Mora , Activist
"Today’s release represents the culmination of years of genetic research and conservation collaboration."
— Hugo Mogollón , Executive
Key People
Dr Jen Jones is the chief executive of the Galápagos Conservation Trust.
CEO of Island Conservation.
President and CEO of Galápagos Conservancy.
Director of the Galápagos National Park.
CEO of Island Conservation.
A Floreana community representative involved in conservation efforts.
Tags
All Coverage
The native species was driven to extinction by sailors in the 1800s. Now, 158 juvenile giant tortoises have been reintroduced to the island.
The release of 158 giant tortoises on Floreana Island marks a major milestone for Galápagos conservation, with the species returning after over 150 years.
158 juvenile giant tortoises of Floreana lineage have been released into their ancestral habitat, marking a historic milestone for ecological restoration in Galápagos.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Cornish sardines back on menu for penguins
The move follows a chance conversation at the wildlife attraction and replaces imported fish.
August 15, 2026 at 11:08 AMGiant whales move into Greenland waters as ice disappears
Melting sea ice from climate change has opened up the region for giant whales to undertake "feeding frenzies".
August 20, 2026 at 02:05 AMFamily stranded at sea for 16 hours after jet ski capsized in Thailand
A father and his two young sons spent a night adrift before being rescued off the coast of the island of Koh Samui.
August 15, 2026 at 10:56 AMHidden moth population found after 70 years
Dr Dave Wainwright describes the discovery as one of the highlights of his career.
August 14, 2026 at 05:07 AMRare cows part of estate's rewilding project
White Park cattle arrive at the Castle Howard estate in North Yorkshire to support conservation.
August 19, 2026 at 06:13 AMMexico races to clear record seaweed surge from Caribbean beaches - Reuters
Mexico races to clear record seaweed surge from Caribbean beaches Reuters
August 14, 2026 at 09:30 PM