A triumph for conservation: over 2,000 Amazon river turtles return to the wild

As part of a biodiversity conservation and management program, officials and local communities have released more than 2,000 baby turtles in a protected reserve in Peru

In a heartwarming display of nature conservation, a flotilla of more than 2,000 Amazon River turtles has taken their first steps into the wild, exploring the Reserva Comunal de Airo Pai in Peru. This successful reintroduction into their natural habitat marks a significant milestone for the preservation of this majestic species.

Cooperation makes it possible

The operation was made possible through a collaboration between the officials from the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State (Sernanp) and the communities of the Maynas-Loreto province, as part of a conservation and management plan for the Podocnemis unifilis species.

The Amazon River turtle, also known as tracajá, is one of the largest turtle species in South America. Found near rivers and lakes, these turtles were reintroduced in the Alto Napo river basin, with the participation of the OSPA Dos Fronteras organization.

The liberation took place in the Aguajal sector, witnessed by representatives of institutions, communities, and volunteers. This release is celebrated as a victory for the protection of Peruvian biodiversity.

Such initiatives highlight Sernanp’s commitment to the responsible management of local wildlife in its reserves. The project also extended to other reserves, including releases in the Reserva Nacional Pacaya Samiria, the second-largest protected natural area in Peru.

The event culminated in a poignant moment as all involved operators bid farewell to the tiny turtles, releasing them back to their home.