Tortoises Reappear After 150 Years on Galapagos Island
February 21, 2026 • Al Jazeera
Giant Tortoises Reintroduced to Galapagos Island After 150-Year Absence
A group of over 150 giant tortoises has been released on Ecuador’s Floreana Island in the Galapagos, marking a significant milestone in an ongoing conservation effort. The reintroduction is part of a long-term initiative aimed at restoring the island’s ecosystem.
According to reports, the tortoises were transported from a breeding program and have now been released onto the island. This marks the first time giant tortoises have been present on Floreana Island since their disappearance nearly 150 years ago.
The reintroduction is part of a broader conservation strategy that seeks to restore the balance of the island’s ecosystem. The Galapagos Islands are home to a unique and diverse array of flora and fauna, and efforts are being made to protect and preserve this biodiversity.
The release of the giant tortoises is an important step in this process, as these animals play a crucial role in shaping the island’s ecosystem. By reintroducing them to their natural habitat, conservationists hope to promote the health and resilience of the island’s ecosystems.
The exact number of tortoises released on Floreana Island has not been confirmed, but it is reported that over 150 individuals have been transported from a breeding program. The release of these animals marks an important milestone in the ongoing conservation efforts aimed at protecting the Galapagos Islands and their unique wildlife.
Source: Al Jazeera