Giant tortoise population on Aldabra reaches 180,000

A landmark survey by the Seychelles Islands Foundation and the University of Exeter confirms that the giant tortoise population on the Aldabra atoll has reached approximately 180,000. This figure is the highest ever recorded for the species, marking a significant recovery since the 19th century when numbers fell below 1,000.

Published in Ecology and Evolution, the study analyzed data from 2018 to 2022 to establish a reliable benchmark. While the population is currently stable, researchers note that invasive mammals and climate-driven droughts remain ongoing threats. Conservationists hope to eradicate invasive species to further support the growth of this iconic population.

Editor's note: The brief accurately reports the findings of the SIF and University of Exeter study regarding the Aldabra tortoise population.