The race to save the tortoise | 60 Minutes Archive

TL;DR

Animals such as turtles and tortoises are facing rapid extinction due to habitat loss and the illegal animal trade, but one man named Eric Good is dedicating his life and wealth to protect them.

Transcript

60 Minutes rewind not since the dinosaurs disappeared have animals been going extinct as fast as they are now entire species vanish every year and while our hearts are moved by the plight of the biggest whales or elephants the fiercest Tigers even sharks and certainly the cutest like pandas what about the slowest the turtle and its landl cousin the... Read More

Key Insights

• 🤪 Animals such as turtles and tortoises, which have survived for millions of years, are now rapidly going extinct due to human activity.
• 🐢 The illegal trade of turtles and tortoises is a lucrative business, particularly in Asian countries where demand is high and prosecution is low.
• 🖤 Poverty, habitat loss, and lack of political will contribute to the decline of these animals in countries like Madagascar.
• 🐢 Entrepreneurs like Eric Good are dedicating their wealth and resources to protect endangered turtles and tortoises, even if it means taking extreme measures.

Questions & Answers

Q: How big of a threat is the illegal turtle and tortoise trade?

The turtle and tortoise trade is a multi-million dollar business, with China alone estimated to be worth hundreds of millions. The low risk of prosecution makes it incredibly profitable.

Q: How is Eric Good combating the trade?

Good is spending his own money to fight the trade in places like Madagascar. He hires locals to protect the animals and even advocates for radical measures like scarring the shells to discourage collectors.

Q: Why are turtles and tortoises particularly vulnerable to extinction?

Habitat loss and the demand for them as food, medicine, rare collector's items, and pets are the main factors. Their slow reproductive rate and the lucrative black market for them further exacerbate the threat.

Q: Is there any hope for these endangered species?

While the situation is dire, efforts like Eric Good's breeding center in the United States and conservation projects in Madagascar offer hope. The ultimate goal is to eventually reintroduce these animals back into the wild.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Animals like turtles and tortoises have been slow and steady survivors for over 200 million years, but they are now facing extinction due to human predators and the illegal animal trade.

• Eric Good, a wealthy entrepreneur, has made it his mission to protect endangered turtles and tortoises, even though he is deeply involved in the glamourous New York City scene.

• Good is spending a million dollars a year to fight the trade, particularly in places like Madagascar, where poverty and political will contribute to the demise of these animals.