Radiated Tortoise

The radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata) is currently one of the most endangered tortoise species in the world and is only found in the forests of Madagascar. The IUCN has classified the species as critically endangered.

The biggest threats are poaching and the illegal animal trade. Because there is a lot of deforestation, projects have been started to try to preserve the habitat of the radiated tortoise. Without intervention, this tortoise species will almost certainly become extinct within the next 20 years. Tortoises are poached on Madagascar daily. Most of these are intended for trade, but some are also eaten. The demand for these animals mainly comes from Asia, where they are used in traditional medicine.

The Species Protection Project is an initiative of the WCS (World Conservation Society) and the TSA (Turtle Survival Alliance). Thanks to donations from the Herpetofauna Foundation, the logistics of the breeding station in Madagascar have been secured. Moreover, animals have been flown in from zoological institutions to participate in a long-term breeding project. In this way an attempt is made to ensure the survival of all species of tortoises in Madagascar.