Our Experts at the Giant Tortoise Breeding Centers
The story of the Galápagos giant tortoise’s comeback is one of the applications of scientific insight to innovate conservation. Captive rearing programs for giant tortoises were started in 1965 and have proven critical to the recovery of many tortoise populations. These programs raise young tortoises in a safe environment during their first five years when they are most vulnerable to predators and food and water scarcity. The giant tortoises’ return from the brink of extinction would not be possible without the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes. Galápagos Conservancy collaborates with the Galápagos National Park Directorate to help run breeding centers.
The Dedication of Walter Chimborazo
Our experts make a significant difference. Walter Chimborazo is one of them. Walter is a familiar and friendly face at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Center on Santa Cruz Island, where he works alongside park rangers to ensure the safety and well-being of thousands of young giant tortoises.
Walter’s days are a testament to his dedication: every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, he prepares and distributes fresh greens to the hungry tortoises. On other days, he cleans the tortoises’ corrals and ensures that the tortoises get enough sunlight to maintain healthy body temperatures and growth. During the nesting season, Walter works seven days a week to monitor eggs in incubators and adjust temperatures to ensure optimal development. Walter is Godfather of thousands of these little gentle giants – the most rewarding aspect for him is witnessing the steady growth of each one firsthand.
Cristian Gil: A Passionate Journey in Galápagos
Cristian’s dedication is visible at the Arnaldo Tupiza Breeding Center on Isabela Island. Established in 1995, the center serves as an important sanctuary for the island’s threatened tortoises. Recent upgrades to the center, funded by Galápagos Conservancy, include optimized enclosures, breeding pens, and new incubation systems. These improve the tortoises’ lives while allowing staff to provide more effective and less disruptive care, demonstrating their renewed commitment to the tortoises’ well-being.
The story of Cristian Gil – another of our tortoise experts – is also an inspiring one. He grew up on the flanks of Sierra Negra volcano on Isabela Island, surrounded by the archipelago’s incredible biodiversity, and witnessed firsthand the plight of the volcano’s giant tortoises, whose population has collapsed from being its largest to now its smallest. This passion for conserving his homeland inspired Cristian to pursue a degree in environmental science and eventually join our team at Galápagos Conservancy.
Collaborating for a Sustainable Future
The human touch behind our thriving breeding centers, exemplified by Walter’s dedication to Santa Cruz and Cristian’s commitment to Isabela, is made possible by this successful collaboration with the Galápagos National Park Directorate. Through continued collaboration, dedication, and innovation on the ground, we can ensure that this success story continues. It’s the power of working together that makes it all possible.
