Researchers find 180,000 giant tortoises living on island in Seychelles
A landmark survey has revealed that the Aldabra giant tortoise population in the Seychelles has reached 180,000, the highest figure ever recorded. This recovery is considered a major conservation success, as the population had dwindled to fewer than 1,000 individuals in the 19th century.
Why it matters
It demonstrates the effectiveness of long-term, strict environmental protection and conservation programs in reversing species extinction trends.
An Aldabra giant tortoise in Seychelles. An Aldabra giant tortoise in Seychelles. Wildlife Researchers find 180,000 giant tortoises living on island in Seychelles Figure is highest ever recorded for species and confirms one of Indian Ocean’s greatest conservation success stories
Prefer the Guardian on Google A landmark survey of the world’s largest free-roaming giant tortoise population has revealed the once endangered species is thriving.
A population of Aldabra giant tortoise lives on an island in Seychelles called Aldabra Atoll.
The most recent survey, led by Seychelles Islands Foundation (SIF) and the University of Exeter, revealed there were approximately 180,000 tortoises living on the island.
This is the highest figure ever recorded for the species and far exceeds the human population of Seychelles.
The new figure was obtained by a team who analysed five years of tortoise counts between 2018 and 2022.
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