Shell-shocked survivors of illegal trade find new home on the Gold Coast

Critically endangered reptiles named after Nintendo figures have found shell-ter at Currumbin after a narrow escape from wildlife traffickers. FULL STORY

Rescued from poachers and bound for the illegal wildlife trade, five critically endangered Radiated Tortoises have found shell-ter at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary.

Reptiles supervisor Chris Halliwell said fortunately, Yoshi, Peach, Donkey Kong, Bowser and Toad were among thousands rescued by authorities just before they reached the illegal pet and food trade in Hong Kong.

“Sadly, not all animals that fall victim to poaching can be released back into the wild,” he said.

Five critically endangered Radiated Tortoises have taken a major step forward in their conservation journey, moving into a new purpose-built habitat at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Picture: Supplied.

He said many were found with no food or water, suffering from shell deformities and bone disease.

Listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN Red List, wild populations are declining rapidly due to poaching, habitat loss, and the illegal trade.

After initial care in Hong Kong, the move, co-ordinated by the Turtle Survival Alliance, forms part of a conservation strategy backed by the Zoo and Aquarium Association of Australasia.

“We received these five individuals due to their shell deformities, likely caused by the terrible conditions they were housed and illegally transported in,” says Halliwell.

Their specially designed habitat at the Sanctuary replicates their native southern Madagascar environment. Halliwell said staff will monitor their growth and health throughout their lives, which could be up to 180 years.

Yoshi, Peach, Donkey Kong, Bowser, and Toad were among thousands of critically endangered Radiated Tortoises rescued from the illegal wildlife trade, after authorities recovered them from poachers. They now have a new home at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Picture: Supplied.

The new habitat – The Tortoise Village – replicates the dry environment of southern Madagascar. It aims to provide “a safe, stimulating space” for these tortoises to live out their lives while raising awareness about the threats facing their species. Picture: Supplied.

“I like to say that they have 24 hour private health cover.”

It is also designed to raise awareness about the threats facing their species.

The Tortoise Village will open to guests on Saturday June 28, where they will move from their temporary facility next to Currumbin Wildlife Hospital.