From Prison Island to Tortoise Haven
The island of Changuu off the Zanzibar coast in Tanzania has performed may roles in its past. From a slave hold in the 19th century, a quarantine station for yellow fever suffers and now a tourist stop. The island is also home to several Aldabra giant tortoises (Aldabrachelys gigantea), the oldest of which is approximately 191 years old. The tortoises have free roam around the island and are breeding quite happily. Seems like a good stop for any tourist in the area with an interest in tortoises.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Indonesian government must protect pig-nosed turtles from extinction. 41 are saved in a smuggling attempted.
Unseasonal showers affect nesting of turtles in theNational Chambal Sanctuary.
Another article on the River Murrary turtle with some photos.
Education
Alabama’s sea turtle conservation project starts training for new and returning volunteers on April 2nd.
Did You Know…
The Aldabra giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea) is from the islands of the Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles. Its carapace averages 120 cm in length with an average weight of 250 kg. Females are generally smaller than males, with average specimens measuring 90 cm in length and weighing 150 kg.
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Photo from by Adie Vanessa Offiong
