Last week came news from the Galapagos National Park that
Lonesome George — the last Pinta Island Tortoise in the world —
may yet become a father. 5 perfect eggs were found in the nest
of one of the two female tortoises that share a corral with ol’
George. It will be another 120-130 days before the incubation
process is completed and before it is known if the eggs are
viable. Scientists at the Charles Darwin Research Station have
been attempting to breed George with tortoises similar to Pinta
subspecies since 1972. Last summer — over thirty-years later
(giant tortoises have never been celebrated for their swiftness)
— park rangers found a nest in George’s corral with 13 eggs.
These eggs, unfortunately, were declared infertile. The
Galapagos Conservancy reports that scientists are hopeful, but
realistic; the chances are slim that this new batch of eggs will
produce George’s offspring. But I’ve always been a “glass-half-
full” sort of gal and will remain optimistic. Sending good-vibes
your way, George! The Galap