Download the Long Read podcast from September 29
The Australian swamp turtle is one of the most endangered species in the world. This species lives in wetlands threatened by rising temperatures and decreasing precipitation.
To save the turtle, researchers are testing a controversial strategy called assisted migration. This approach allowed captive-bred turtles to be released into other wetlands, approximately 330 kilometers south of where they occur naturally. The goal is to see if the animals can tolerate cooler climates and if this new habitat could secure the species’ future as the planet warms.
While many conservation biologists and land managers have long resisted the idea of assisted migration, attitudes are changing and other projects are beginning to test whether this method can protect animals threatened by climate change.
This is an audio version of our feature: These animals are heading towards extinction. A new house could be their last chance
Never miss an episode. Subscribe to the Nature podcast on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Spotify or your favorite podcast app. An RSS feed for the Nature Podcast is also available.