First-time mother – While most animal species do not live past the age of 80, Nigrita – the tortoise – is the age at which she gave birth for the first time. Even better, her species is on the verge of extinction.
Nigrita is an 80-year-old Galapagos tortoise who lives in Switzerland’s Zoo Zürich.
The Galapagos tortoise is the largest tortoise species, weighing up to 900 pounds and native to the same-named islands. They also have the ability to live for more than 150 years. Unfortunately, the species was on the verge of extinction in the 1970s, with only ten individuals remaining in the wild.
She’s also making a significant difference for her endangered species.
This year was Nigrita’s first time laying eggs. Most species don’t live to be 80, let alone give birth at that age, but it’s perfectly normal for her species!
In fact, these tortoises don’t start reproducing until they’re around 40 years old. Galapagos tortoises are among the world’s longest-living animals. Nigrita is a prime tortoise by tortoise standards.
In fact, these tortoises don’t start reproducing until they’re around 40 years old. Galapagos tortoises are among the world’s longest-living animals. Nigrita is a prime tortoise by tortoise standards.
Nigrita is currently a part of the zoo’s breeding program, which adds to the rarity of her nine hatchlings. Tortoises like Nigrita are responsible for the species’ survival.
Take a look at the video below: