800 Baby Turtles Released into Bolivian River After Successful Conservation Effort

In the heart of Bolivia's Beni region, a remarkable conservation story unfolded on June 8th, 2025. Eight hundred baby river turtles, lovingly referred to as 'petitás,' were released back into the wild, marking the successful conclusion of a community-driven initiative. For four months, these tiny creatures had been under the care of park rangers in protected nurseries. The project, fueled by a fundraising campaign that generated Bs 20,000, allowed for their safe return to the Maniquí River in San Borja. "It was an incredibly emotional moment," recounted one of the participating park rangers. "To see these little turtles finally return to their natural habitat after so much care was truly rewarding." The successful release is a testament to the power of community collaboration in environmental conservation, offering a beacon of hope for the preservation of Bolivia's rich biodiversity.