FLOREANA ISLAND, Ecuador – After nearly 150 years of absence, giant tortoises have returned to Floreana Island in the Galápagos archipelago. On Friday, 158 juvenile hybrid tortoises were released as part of an ambitious ecosystem restoration project, marking a significant step in reversing the species’ extinction on the island.
The tortoises, ranging in age from eight to thirteen years old, have begun to explore their new habitat, coinciding with the onset of the season’s first winter rains. Galápagos National Park officials selected the specimens based on their size and ability to defend themselves against introduced predators like rats and cats, according to Fredy Villalba, director of the park’s breeding center on Santa Cruz Island.
This initial release represents a fraction of the 700 tortoises planned for reintroduction to Floreana. Christian Sevilla, director of ecosystems for the Galápagos National Park, explained that the released individuals carry between 40% and 80% of the genetic markers of the extinct Chelonoidis niger species, once native to the island. The lineage of these hybrids has been traced back to Wolf Volcano on Isabela Island, a finding that continues to intrigue scientists.
The breeding program aims to gradually restore the genetic purity of the Floreana tortoise through selective breeding of adults with the strongest genetic ties to the original species. Two centuries ago, Floreana Island supported an estimated population of 20,000 giant tortoises. However, relentless exploitation by whalers, a devastating fire, and broader human impact led to their complete disappearance from the island.
“In genetic terms, reintroducing a species to that island with a significant genetic component of the original species is vital,” said biologist Washington Tapia, director of Biodiversa-Consultores, a firm specializing in the Galápagos Islands. Tapia emphasized that the project’s success hinges on restoring a lost lineage, not simply increasing numbers.
Floreana Island, a volcanic landmass covering approximately 173 square kilometers (67 square miles), is the southernmost island in the Galápagos archipelago. Located roughly 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) off the coast of mainland Ecuador, the island is home to a small human population of nearly 200 people, as well as diverse wildlife including flamingos, iguanas, penguins, sea gulls, and hawks.
However, the reintroduced tortoises will also face challenges from non-native plant species such as blackberry and guava, and introduced animals like rats, cats, pigs, and donkeys. These invasive species, brought to the island by human activity, pose a threat to the tortoises’ survival.
Verónica Mora, a resident of Floreana, expressed her enthusiasm for the tortoise reintroduction. “We are seeing the reality of a project that began several years ago,” she said, adding that the community takes immense pride in the return of the giant tortoises.
The Galápagos Islands were designated a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in 1978, recognizing their unique biodiversity. The reintroduction project is ongoing, with further releases planned as the breeding program progresses.