NASA Is Helping Bring Giant Tortoises Back to the Galápagos
NASA
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
NASA is playing a pivotal role in restoring giant tortoises to Floreana Island in the Galápagos after their disappearance more than 150 years ago due to human activity and invasive species. Using satellite data, scientists have identified optimal regions on the island for food, water, and nesting, ensuring the best chances of survival for the newly released tortoises. This collaboration between NASA, the Galápagos National Park Directorate, and the Galápagos Conservancy marks a significant step in ecological restoration.
The giant tortoises vanished from Floreana Island in the mid-1800s after being hunted by whalers and facing threats from introduced predators like pigs and rats. Their absence led to changes in the island's ecosystem, as tortoises historically played a crucial role in shaping the landscape by grazing vegetation, creating pathways, and dispersing seeds. The recent release of 158 tortoises is part of an ongoing effort to restore these vital ecological functions.
The project also highlights the importance of NASA’s Earth observations in addressing practical conservation challenges. By analyzing satellite imagery, scientists can determine suitable habitats for the tortoises and predict long-term environmental conditions. This technology has been instrumental in selecting release sites where the animals are most likely to thrive, considering factors like seasonal changes and vegetation patterns.
The restoration effort builds on decades of work by the Galápagos National Park Directorate, which has successfully raised and released over 10,000 tortoises across the archipelago. However, each island presents unique challenges due to varying climates and ecosystems. For example, some areas intercept clouds and remain cool and damp, while others are drier, requiring the tortoises to adapt by traveling
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Originally published on NASA on 2/20/2026