A giant tortoise from a species previously thought to be extinct was located on the Galapagos Islands. The species was last spotted in 1906.
The Fernandina or the female Chelonoidis phantasticus was found in 2019 during an expedition.
To confirm, scientists tested the samples. They compared them with remains from a male phantasticus discovered in the 1900s.
Yale University Concludes: The Fernandina Tortoise Is NOT Extinct
Using the collected samples from the expedition, scientists from Yale University conclude this tortoise was really a member of the species that was believed to be extinct.
The amazing news was also published on the website of the Galapagos Conservancy. Their national park is also planning an expedition to look for more of these tortoises in order to save the species.
The scientists found feces and prints on the Fernandina Island that they believe are signs of more tortoises in the wild.
Gustavo Manrique, the environment minister of Ecuador confirms this groundbreaking news on Twitter by writing ‘hope is alive’.
This giant tortoise, estimated to be more than 100 years old, is currently located in a breeding center in Santa Cruz Island.
One of the Biggest Mysteries
Dr. James Gibbs, VP of Science and Conservation for the Galapagos Conservancy says this tortoise has been one of the biggest mysteries in the Galapagos Island.
The rediscovery comes just at the right time to save the species. The next step is looking for other tortoises on the island.
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