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Giant Tortoise Population Soars to Record High
8 Oct
Summary
- Over 180,000 Aldabra giant tortoises now inhabit Aldabra Atoll.
- This population is the highest ever recorded, confirming a major conservation success.
- Threats include climate change, droughts, rising sea levels, and invasive mammals.
A recent survey has confirmed that the Aldabra giant tortoise population on Seychelles' Aldabra Atoll has reached an unprecedented high, with approximately 180,000 individuals. This figure represents the highest number ever recorded for the species and highlights a remarkable conservation achievement.
The findings, gathered between 2018 and 2022, show a stable population estimated at nearly 183,000 adult and sub-adult tortoises. This contrasts sharply with the late 19th century, when fewer than 1,000 Aldabra tortoises remained due to exploitation.
The island was designated a strict nature reserve in 1981 and a Unesco site in 1982, leading to its recovery. Researchers emphasize that continued monitoring is crucial, as Aldabra faces environmental challenges.
Future threats include changing climate patterns, prolonged droughts, rising sea levels, and invasive species like feral cats and rats that prey on tortoise eggs and hatchlings. Eradicating these remaining invasive mammals is seen as key to protecting the population's growth and resilience.
