Rare Tortoise Hatchlings Born to Century-Old Parents Give Hope for Endangered Species
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📰 The quick summary: Sixteen critically endangered western Santa Cruz tortoises hatched at the Philadelphia Zoo from century-old parents, contributing to the survival of this rare species native to the Galapagos Islands.
📈 One key stat: The 16 hatchlings represent the first progeny for a female tortoise that has been at the Philadelphia Zoo since 1932, ensuring her genetic legacy can continue for potentially another century.
💬 One key quote: “Now this animal, who’s been in Philadelphia since 1932, will be represented here for, hopefully, another 100 years because her offspring are now part of our collection,” said Lauren Augustine, the zoo’s director of herpetology.
1️⃣ The big picture: The Philadelphia Zoo has welcomed 16 critically endangered western Santa Cruz tortoise hatchlings born to a pair of centenarian parents. The mother, aptly named Mommy, has been at the zoo since 1932 but only produced offspring after a male named Abrazzo arrived from another zoo nearly five years ago. These hatchlings are considered highly valuable for conservation as they carry genes from two 100-year-old parents, representing hope for a species native to the Galapagos Islands. The tortoises hatched in several groups throughout the year and were recently showcased during a special event at the zoo.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: These hatchlings represent a significant conservation win for a critically endangered species that faces serious survival challenges in the wild. The genetic diversity they bring is particularly valuable since their parents are roughly 100 years old and considered highly genetically valuable specimens. By successfully breeding these ancient tortoises in captivity, zoos help maintain genetic diversity that might otherwise be lost. The offspring will eventually be placed in different facilities, creating a network of related tortoises that strengthens the species’ chances for long-term survival. As the largest tortoise species with lifespans potentially reaching 200 years, these hatchlings may serve as conservation ambassadors for generations to come.
3️⃣ What’s next: The 16 hatchlings will remain at the Philadelphia Zoo for at least a year before being placed in different facilities next fall. Zoo officials are soliciting donors to suggest names for one of the male hatchlings, subject to approval. Meanwhile, the zoo continues to use non-toxic nail polish to distinguish the young tortoises from each other as they grow.
Read the full story here: Mongabay – Tortoise hatchlings born of century-old parents come out of their shells at Philadelphia Zoo
