Mom, 97-year-old West Santa Cruz Galapagos turtle and her first mom. Credit: Philadelphia Zoo
Newly born animals are always a special event at the zoo, but for the Philadelphia Zoo, their latest new addition is somewhat miraculous.
That’s because it is an endangered species of Santa Cruz Galapagos turtle, known affectionately as Mama. Surprisingly, she gave birth at an extraordinary age of 97, marking the first successful hatching of her kind in the zoo’s 150-year-old history. His proud father is a 96-year-old turtle named Abrazo.
Turtles can breed in very old age
This miracle of life was made possible due to the fact that turtles (and other reptiles) can usually reproduce throughout their lifetimes. This allows for the breeding to be maintained in old age, as proven by moms. Hatch rings, four small turtles are doing well and are considered female based on the incubation temperature experienced while developing in the egg.
The new baby turtle is currently stored in reptiles and amphibians’ homes and will be open to the public on April 23rd. This date is specially selected to mark 93.rd On the anniversary of Mama’s arrival at the Philadelphia Zoo, it becomes a double celebration. It is said that the baby turtle will remain at the zoo for at least the next five years.
These new turtles are the result of the successful breeding programme aimed at conserving this endangered turtle species. The zoo is now excited to recreate this success at other certified zoos and celebrate whether they can further protect these special creatures.
Why are giant turtles at risk?
Speaking about the program, Ashley Ortega of Gladysporter Zoo in Texas said, “Before the hatch ring, all zoos in the US combine only 44 giant turtles from Western Santa Cruz, so these latest additions represent new genetic strains and some much-needed help to the population of the species.”
Sadly, humans are responsible for the fact that this wonderful turtle species is on the verge of extinction. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, they were first threatened when sailors historically tried to hunt them as meat. After that, the introduction of goats was introduced. Goats not only disrupt their habitat, but also sought the same food, which led to a competition. Finally, cats and rats are said to prey on young turtles and their eggs.
Find more news articles written in English by Donna Williams
