Gopherus flavomarginatus Assurance Colony Brings Hope for a Nearly Extinct Species
The world’s first Gopherus flavomarginatus head-starting program recently took off, as the initial group of hatchlings was released into their native habitat as a collaborative project between the Turtle Conservancy and Turner Endangered Species Fund (TESF). Assisted by Dr. Paul Gibbons from the Turtle Conservancy, the tortoises were radio-tagged before being sent on their way. Dr. Gibbons has officially partnered with the TESF to establish assurance colonies of Gopherus flavomarginatus in targeted areas where they were once native. These tortoises have been heavily damaged by ecosystem devastation, and the introduction of the head-started hatchlings in their former habitat is a great leap towards bringing the species back from the brink.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Papua New Guinea: Head-starting program in place for Carettochelys insculpta
AU: Natator depressus join head-start program
Asia: The last of the great Rafetus
USA: Just how endangered are these dinosaurs?
USA: 20,000 acres protected for native tortoises
Biology
AU: This determined young Caretta caretta swam 2,000 km in record time
USA: A look into a day of trapping the notorious Macrochelys temminckii
Ecology
AU: Citizens able to contribute to vital research
Health & Medical
USA: This Eretmochelys imbricata was rescued with a missing flipper
USA: On a positive note, this tri-flippered turtle makes an amazing recovery
USA: A solemn reminder about ocean pollution
USA: Unbelievable survival story
INDIA: This center a state-of-the-art treatment facility
Did You Know…
The genus Chrysemys has the ability to partially freeze during hibernation due to substances called cryoprotectants, which prevent cell damage and body tissue from freezing.
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Photo from Paul Gibbons.
