Story perspectives

158 Giant Tortoises Reintroduced to Floreana Island After 180 Years

2/21/2026

Summary

Story summary

On February 20, conservationists released 158 juvenile giant tortoises on Floreana Island, the first return in nearly 180 years, from a breeding program using Wolf Volcano descendants.
The release supports the Floreana Ecological Restoration Project, which seeks to restore the island after invasive species eradication.
The tortoises are expected to boost biodiversity by dispersing seeds.
Future efforts will focus on reintroducing native species, including the Floreana mockingbird and vegetarian finch.

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Story summary

On February 20, conservationists released 158 juvenile giant tortoises on Floreana Island, the first return in nearly 180 years, from a breeding program using Wolf Volcano descendants.
The release supports the Floreana Ecological Restoration Project, which seeks to restore the island after invasive species eradication.
The tortoises are expected to boost biodiversity by dispersing seeds.
Future efforts will focus on reintroducing native species, including the Floreana mockingbird and vegetarian finch.