Thailand is buzzing with excitement right now, and no, it’s not just because of the mouthwatering street food or the captivating beaches. This time, it’s the Korat Zoo that’s caught everyone’s attention by pulling off a remarkable feat that has everyone ready to shell-ebrate! This renowned zoo has made history by successfully hatching not one, not two, but eleven Aldabra giant tortoise babies. It’s a milestone as they become the first zoo in the entire country to breed this rare species. Picture this: on a leisurely Sunday, May 18, amidst the lush greenery and curious visitors, these hatchlings decided to make their grand debut, much to the delight of zookeepers and conservationists alike.
The first glimpse of these tiny yet incredible creatures arrived to a flurry of excitement. Just imagine the joy on the face of Korat Zoo’s director, Thanachon Kensingh, as he declared on May 21 that these 11 bouncing babies were not only adorable but also in tip-top health. Reverend optimists that they are, the zoo’s team of veterinarians and specialist reptile keepers are enthusiastically watching over their newest charges. “The babies are currently in the nursery, where we’re keeping a close eye on their development,” stated Thanachon, drumming up excitement like a maestro tapping on a new symphony. “Though we haven’t determined their sex just yet, we are immensely proud of the progress they’re making.”
This unprecedented success is owed to a group of just three adult Aldabra giants residing at the zoo, comprised of one dashing male and two graceful females. Tucked away in Chai Mongkhon subdistrict, Mueang district, of the scenic Nakhon Ratchasima province, Korat Zoo stands as a proud member of the Zoological Park Organisation of Thailand. Thanks to their landmark achievement, they’re now leading the nation when it comes to breeding these iconic, gentle giants.
According to the word flying about among the enthusiastic staff, these hardy hatchlings will soon be making their way to public viewing areas once they grow big and strong enough — destined to become major attractions. “The hatchlings are a monumental leap in our conservation efforts and education programs,” mentioned Thanachon, with a grin that could rival the Cheshire Cat’s. “We can’t wait to introduce them to the public!”
For those not in the know, the Aldabra giant tortoise holds an impressive record for size—second only to the Galápagos and African spurred tortoises. Endemic to the pristine Aldabra Atoll in the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean, these captivating creatures are listed as vulnerable. The wild population has a headcount of about 100,000, a number well worth conserving. Chief reptile keeper Sunthorn Jongklang passionately described these gentle behemoths: they can grow over a meter long, clock in at more than 250 kilograms, and brandish dark grey or black dome-shaped shells that make them as majestic as they are massive. Oh, and did we mention they can live up to a staggering 150 years? The Bangkok Post eagerly wrapped it up saying, “These long-living marvels teach us resilience and conservation in leaps and bounds.”
With Korat Zoo at the helm as Thailand’s first successful Aldabra hatchery, these tiny tortoises have already started making waves on the global conservation map. While we’re eagerly waiting to meet these plodding stars, for the time being, they’re basking in the limelight from the cozy confines of their nursery. It’s just a matter of time before they charm the socks off visitors, bringing home an important tale of conservation and endurance from the most unlikely of sources.
This is such fantastic news! Korat Zoo is leading the way in conservation!
Absolutely, they deserve a lot of praise for this achievement. It’s no small feat to hatch Aldabra giant tortoises.
True, but let’s not forget about natural reserves. Zoos can only do so much.
And it’s a reminder of how important it is to support conservation efforts!
Exactly, everyone should visit and learn about these wonderful creatures!
Thailand is just amazing! First the elephants, now giant tortoises. What’s next?
Maybe more sustainable wildlife initiatives? It’s great they’re making progress.
Aldabra tortoises in a zoo? Isn’t their place in the wild where they belong?
Their natural habitat is endangered. Zoos play a crucial role in their survival.
I get that, but I wish we focused more on habitat protection instead.
Both are needed. It’s about taking action wherever possible.
How long until these little guys get to meet their fans at the zoo?
I’d love to know too! Can’t wait to pay them a visit.
Good job, Korat Zoo! Hope this spurs more interest in environmental science.
Does anyone know how they managed to hatch these tortoises? Seems like such a difficult task!
It’s all about the right environment and lots of care by reptile specialists.
Fascinating! The zoo staff must be really dedicated.
This must have been quite a spectacle! Thai zoos are really stepping up their game.
It’s quite a feat! Makes me proud of my country’s progress in preservation efforts.
While exciting, I wonder if this sets a precedent for other endangered species?
I hope so! If other zoos follow suit, it could make a big difference.
A step forward in raising awareness about vulnerable species. Kudos to their team!
Whoa! Didn’t know tortoises lived that long. 150 years? That’s mind-boggling.