We are excited to share some hopeful news from the plains of New Mexico. In a remarkable conservation effort, on September 22nd, our partners at the Turner Endangered Species Fund (TESF) celebrated the release of 20 Bolson tortoises marking a significant milestone in the preservation of this critically endangered species.

The Bolson tortoise (Gopherus flavomarginatus) is a rare species that was once native to the arid southwestern United States but became extinct in the US and has only been found in Northern Mexico until recent efforts made by TESF. A species considered to be the largest terrestrial reptile native to North America, Bolson Tortoises have faced numerous threats in recent years including habitat loss, illegal trafficking, and climate-change induced challenges.

Recognizing the threats these gentle tortoises were facing, program director Chris Weise and her partner Scott Hillard along with their dedicated team members, have come together to secure a future for Bolson tortoises by repatriating them back onto U.S. soil on Armendaris Ranch in New Mexico.

In the article written by Huffington Post, program director, Chris Weise, shared the importance of the release of headstarted tortoises. “The releases are the essential step to getting them back on the ground and letting them be wild tortoises,” she said. “To us, this is the pinnacle of what we do.”

As the tortoises slowly begin to explore their new home they carry with them a brighter future for the species and how we as humans play a vital role in preserving our planet’s biodiversity instead of harming it.

Thank you to the TESF team, their partners, and supporters for making conservation efforts like these happen. By working together we can ensure a sustainable future for all species.