Zoo Knoxville welcomes critically endangered spider tortoise hatchling
Zoo Knoxville has welcomed its latest animal, a Critically Endangered spider tortoise (Pyxis arachnoides) which hatched this week. Spider tortoises are endemic to Madagascar and are the smallest of the island’s four native species.
These tortoises are extremely vulnerable to poaching and illegal collection, which has greatly reduced its wild population. These tortoises are also unique in that females will only lay one egg per clutch and the incubation time for these tortoises is 220-250 days, hence why this species is a conservation priority. To put that into perspective, a green turtle’s incubation period is typically between 45-70 days.
To catch the full story, click the link above. To find out more information on spider tortoises, click here.
Turtle News From Around the World
Conservation
USA: Clearwater marine aquarium releases largest rescued sea turtle
USA: At marine base, officials must protect endangered tortoises from murderous ravens
Crime & Punishment
South Africa: Angry SPCA to take action over death of tortoises
Education
Canada: Turtles help maintain a balanced ecosystem
New England Aquarium: Turtle Odyssey (event)
Miscellany
UK: Regent’s park college throws a birthday party for 116-Year-Old tortoise
This Week In Turtles…
Join us for a glimpse into the mysterious world ofsea turtles! At Flagler beach we share our beaches with nesting sea turtless each season. Participants will learn about the important role they play in “the Real Florida” and how your actions can help preserve these majestic turtles for generations to come! Wednesday June 5th, 2019
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Photo from Smithsonian’s National Zoo.
