Giant Tortoises Return Home After Nearly Two Centuries 0 82

Their return is the result of many years of research: in the early 2000s, individuals with Floreana genes were discovered on Wolf Volcano (Isabela Island). The breeding program allowed for the restoration of a genetic pool closely resembling the lost species.

Tortoises are a keystone species in the ecosystem: they spread seeds, help shape vegetation, and create microhabitats that birds, plants, and even coastal reefs depend on.

The project is implemented by the Galápagos National Park Directorate with the support of the Charles Darwin Foundation and Island Conservation, with active participation from local residents. The reintroduction of the Floreana mockingbird, striped snake, and other species is also planned. This is the largest ecological project in the history of the archipelago and a global example of how nature restoration can go hand in hand with human interests.