Lindblad Help Giant Tortoises Return to Floreana After 100 Years

For the first time in over a century, giant tortoises have been reintroduced to Floreana Island in the Galápagos National Park. On February 20, a total of 158 tortoises were released back into their native habitat after having been locally extinct for generations.

The milestone was supported in part by traveler donations to the Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic Fund, which has contributed more than $1 million to the Floreana Ecological Restoration Project since 2015.

According to Lindblad, the restoration initiative began more than ten years ago with the aim of rebuilding the island’s ecological balance through a comprehensive approach that includes both environmental science and community involvement.

“The return of giant tortoises to Floreana Island is an extraordinary milestone for the Galápagos and a powerful example of what expedition travel can and should support,” said Amy Berquist, VP, Conservation, Education & Sustainability at Lindblad Expeditions.

“This achievement reflects years of science, leadership from local stakeholders and governmental bodies, and community collaboration. The success on Floreana is a reminder that when travel is rooted in respect, education, and collaboration, it can help protect the very wonders that draw us there in the first place.”

Giant tortoises are considered a keystone species in the Galápagos ecosystem. As they move across the landscape, they disperse seeds of native plants and create natural pathways and habitats that benefit other wildlife.

The reintroduction forms part of a long-term, science-based program scheduled to continue through 2030. Each species reintroduction is carefully planned using habitat research, adaptive management strategies, and engagement with the local community.

The latest release is viewed as a significant step toward restoring Floreana Island to a state where it can once again sustain a thriving population of the endemic species that once called it home.