Lonesome George
Last known Pinta Island tortoise
Born
None
None years ago
Died
June 24th, 2012
12 years ago — None years old
Category
Activists & Humanitarians
Country
Ecuador
Links & References
Lonesome George was the last known individual of the Pinta Island tortoise species, which was native to the Galápagos Islands. Discovered in 1971, he became a symbol of conservation efforts to save endangered species. Stemming from the Charles Darwin Research Station, he attracted global attention. Lonesome George lived in captivity until his death in 2012, and efforts to find a mate for him were unsuccessful, leading to his recognition as the last of his kind.
Represented the plight of endangered species
Catalyzed conservation efforts in Galápagos
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