Reintroduction Project Proves Successful For Rebounding Populations Of Gopherus Polyphemus
Gopherus polyphemus is the quintessential necessary partner for a variety of wildlife in the southern state of Georgia; in fact, 250 additional species are dependent on this desert dweller for their burrows and protection from predators. Unfortunately, human encroachment and predation have taken a heavy toll on the population of Gopherus polyphemus, and thus has created a fatal situation for the host of creatures which cohabitate with these tortoises. A program initiated by the University of Georgia studied the results of a head-starting program for the species in an effort to boost their dwindling wild numbers. At the Yuchi Wildlife Management Area in Burke County, scientists discovered a 70% survival rate in hatchlings that had been head-started and released a year prior to the survey, proving the significant benefits of such a project for the species. During the course of the study, over 30% of released tortoises were fitted with radio-tracking devices for the purpose of monitoring their movements and habits, and it was determined that the head-started animals had a greater survival rate than did their wild companions; in addition, the hatchlings had a strong tendency to remain in their home range. Researchers are continuing the study the ideal release age for the neonates and are also setting definite goals to perform routine releases at various sites throughout the state of Georgia, in hopes that this will outweigh the negative effects of predation on the wild population of these beautiful tortoises.
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Photo from UGA.
