Nigrita is an 80-year-old Galapagos tortoise that lives at the Zoo Zürich in Switzerland. She also happens to be making a big difference for her endangered species.
Nigrita laid her first eggs just last year. Most species don't live to be 80 years old, let alone give birth at that age, but for her species, it's quite normal!
In fact, these tortoises typically don't start reproducing until around age 40. Galapagos tortoises are known as one of the longest-living animals on Earth. By tortoise standards, Nigrita is in her prime.
Although Galapagos tortoises can live to be over 150 years old, there aren't many left. The species is endangered due to greedy humans and hungry predators.
Nigrita is currently part of a breeding program at the zoo, which makes her nine hatchlings all the more special. It's up to tortoises like Nigrita to ensure the survival of her species.
Scroll through below to see this proud mama turtle's new babies, and let us know what you think of these adorable creatures in the comments!
[H/T: BoredPanda]
Nigrita is a very large, 80-year-old Galapagos tortoise that lives at the Zoo Zürich in Switzerland.
She also became a brand-new mom last year.
Although 80 might seem old to start a family, for this type of tortoise, it's completely normal.
In fact, Galapagos tortoises can live to be well over 100 years old!
Although giving birth at this age is not uncommon, the fact that Nigrita was able to have nine healthy hatchlings is something of a miracle.
Why are these little tortoises so special?
The Galapagos tortoise is on the endangered species list.
Nigrita is currently in a breeding program at the Zoo Zürich in order to help her species move away from the brink of extinction!
Why do humans feel responsible for helping the Galapagos tortoise get off the endangered species list?
Well, that's because humans may very well be the reason they're on it in the first place!
Humans first traveling to the Galapagos Islands realized that turtle meat was perfect for long boat rides.
People also brought animals with them that quickly grew accustomed to the taste of tortoise eggs.
The incredible work being done at the Zoo Zürich is a big step on the path to helping with the Galapagos tortoise's population problem.
We wish Nigrita and her nine babies the best of luck!
Let us know what you think of this very old, new mother in the comments, and don't forget to SHARE with anyone who believes in protecting endangered wildlife!
