As a recent headline in the world of animal conservation, Diego, a centenarian giant tortoise (scientifically known as Chelonoidis hoodensis) has taken a much-deserved retirement from his role in the captive breeding programme at Ecuador’s Galapagos National Park. After providing a significant contribution to the restoration of his species’ population, Diego will soon return to his home on Española Island, nearly 80 years after he was originally taken.
About Diego: The Conservation Champ
Diego is a tortoise of considerable age, clocking in at around 100 years old. He joined the breeding programme in 1976 when the population of his species was dwindling at a mere 15. Since then, it’s been a triumphant turnaround with the population exploding to a healthy 2,000. The credit for this impressive recovery can largely be attributed to Diego, who is responsible for approximately 40% of the offspring produced. Interestingly another male tortoise, known as ‘E5’, has generated around 60% of the offspring.
Physical Features
Diego is unique for his dull-yellow face, beady eyes, and a long, leathery neck. When fully stretched out, he measures about five feet in length and weighs approximately 176 pounds. His long neck plays a critical role in the survival of his species, aiding these tortoises to crane their necks in order to feed on cacti.
Threats and Challenges
In the 1800s, the tortoises of the Galápagos Islands were targeted as an excellent source of food by seafarers. This led to a large number of these creatures being carted away from their natural habitat. Moreover, feral goats that inhabited the islands posed another significant threat, both competing for food sources and destroying the tortoise’s habitat.
About Galápagos National Park
Created in 1959, the Galápagos National Park was Ecuador’s first national park. The Galápagos Islands were later recognized for their unique biodiversity and ecological significance by being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1978.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Species | Chelonoidis hoodensis (Giant Tortoise) |
| Age | 100 years |
| Weight | 176 pounds |
| Total Offspring Contribution | 40% |
| Status | Critically Endangered (IUCN Red List) |
The Current Status of the Species
Despite the uplifting story of Diego and the successful breeding programme, it is important to keep in mind that the tortoise species still remains critically endangered according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Concerted efforts are needed to ensure their survival and further growth to maintain the ecological balance of the Galápagos Islands.
