This is a story about a turtle from the Galapagos Islands called Nigrita. And this would not be such a special story if this turtle was not eighty years old and had become a mother for the first time! After being rescued, she was brought to Zurich Zoo in Switzerland, where she lives and is cared for by a team of extraordinary people. This species of turtle is endangered, there are only a dozen of them left in the world, and the news that Nigrita is giving birth to little turtles touches even the hardest of hearts!
The origin of this turtle is on the island of the same name. The Galapagos tortoise is one of the largest and longest-lived tortoises. Its life expectancy is over 150 years!
Most species are known not to experience the current year of Nigrita at all, and most importantly, they give birth during these years, and this is completely normal for their species! In fact, these turtles do not breed until they are about 40 years old. This year, Nigrita laid her first eggs, so by the standards of this species, Nigrita is in her prime.
Regardless of the longevity of this species, they are endangered due to the greed of humans and hungry predators.
In the end, Nigrita had nine cubs, and all of them are currently in the breeding programme at Zurich Zoo. With long-term programmes and good plans, it is possible to ensure the longer survival of this endangered turtle species.
Watch the video about the Nigriti turtle and share your impressions with us!
