Galápagos park releases 158 juvenile hybrid tortoises on Floreana to restore the ecosystem - Associated Press News
AP News
February 20, 2026
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Galápagos National Park has successfully released 158 juvenile hybrid tortoises on Floreana Island as part of an ongoing effort to restore the island's ecosystem. These tortoises, a crossbreed between the native Floreana giant tortoise (Geochelone nigra) and the Santa Cruz subspecies, were raised in captivity and prepared for release over several years. The initiative aims to reintroduce tortoises to Floreana, where the original population was wiped out nearly two centuries ago due to human activity.
The restoration project is a collaborative effort between Galápagos National Park, the Environment Agency of Ecuador, and international partners. By introducing hybrid tortoises that closely resemble the native species, conservationists hope to re-establish a thriving ecosystem on Floreana. The release marks a significant milestone in efforts to preserve the unique biodiversity of the Galápagos Islands, which are renowned for their rich wildlife and evolutionary history.
The juvenile tortoises were carefully raised in breeding centers to ensure they possess the necessary skills to survive in the wild. They were trained to navigate their environment, find food, and avoid predators. This preparation is critical to ensuring the success of the release and the long-term survival of the species. The hybrid approach was chosen because it allows for a genetic mix that mirrors the original Floreana tortoise while maintaining genetic diversity.
This initiative not only highlights the importance of conservation efforts in preserving endangered species but also underscores the role of science and collaboration in ecosystem restoration. By reintroducing these tortoises, Galápagos National Park aims to restore balance to the island's environment, which has been degraded over time by invasive species and other human-induced changes. The success of this project could serve as a model for similar efforts worldwide, demonstrating how careful planning and scientific expertise can help reverse ecological damage.
For readers interested in conservation, science, and environmental stewardship, this story offers hope and inspiration. It illustrates the power of human ingenuity and cooperation to address pressing environmental challenges. The restoration of Floreana's tortoise population is a testament to the importance of protecting biodiversity and maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems, both for the survival of species like these tortoises and for future generations.
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Originally published on AP News on 2/20/2026