Well-known Herpetologist Makes The Trek To Madagascar For Admirable Cause
The crisis in Madagascar regarding the confiscated Astrochelys radiata has gone viral worldwide as first responders rush to the African island in a race to save the 10,000 remaining tortoises from the tragic event. Already multiple veterinarians as well as veterinary technicians, biologists and groups of volunteers have been working tirelessly at the task at hand, and yet even more assistance in the form of workers and supplies are needed to successfully rehab these animals whose health is teetering on the brink from their traumatic history. Numerous zoos and other institutions have sent their own staff across the ocean to lend help to this great cause, and the Knoxville Zoo in Tennessee has sent one of their highly knowledgeable team members. The zoo’s herpetologist is Stephen Nelson, who is also a well-known expert on many reptile species as well as Astrochelys radiata, since they work closely with this species at their own facility. As part of the Species Survival Plan, their breeding group has produced an impressive number of healthy hatchlings, and Knoxville Zoo’s curator of herpetology actually heads the studbook for the species. Nelson traveled to Madagascar over the weekend to help with the care of the confiscated tortoises, and he will remain there for two weeks. It is people like this that will cause this rescue effort to be a successful and worthwhile undertaking.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
Caribbean: Nevis Turtle Group uses tracking program
USA: Volunteer recognized for endless conservation work
USA: Novelty beer generates funds for Clemmys guttata
AU: Photo gallery displays emergency hatchling rescue
Crime & Punishment
Asia: Confiscated tortoise hatchling rehomed
Ecology
AU: Construction causes turtle fatalities
Health & Medical
AU: Investigations into beached sea turtle fatalities
Miscellany
USA: Check out Go-pro footage of sea turtle rescue
USA: Ordeal over new medical equipment wrapping up
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Photo from Caitie McMekin.
