Galapagos tortoise found alive in earthquake rubble in Venezuela

Rescue workers in Venezuela's La Guaira state discovered a Galapagos tortoise alive beneath the rubble of a building destroyed by earthquakes nearly two months prior.

The tortoise was found in the OPPE-23-C structure and was promptly transferred to a safe haven for animals. Journalists shared the news on social media, confirming the reptile's relocation.

Staff at the Misión Nevado shelter in Los Corales received the tortoise. Veterinarians will provide care and conduct necessary evaluations before the animal can be returned to its natural environment. Ileana Ortiz, the shelter's coordinator, described the rescue as an "exceptional event" and a "miracle of life" amidst the debris-clearing efforts.

Ortiz also urged the public to consider adopting animals displaced or orphaned by the earthquakes. She highlighted that many pets were reunited with their owners through social media efforts. The shelter is expanding its capacity to accommodate more animals and ensure they receive medical attention.