A total of 216 Indian Star Tortoises rescued from Mumbai and Thane have found their way back into the wild, with their release in Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve (TATR) in Maharashtra. The tortoises were among those rescued or seized during separate operations against illegal wildlife trafficking and possession across the two regions.
Their release also marks the launch of Project STRIPES (Star Tortoise Repatriation Initiative Protecting Endangered Species), an initiative by the Maharashtra Forest Department and RAWW (Resqink Association for Wildlife Welfare). The project aims to create a proper system for assessing, rehabilitating and eventually returning rescued Star Tortoises to suitable natural habitats.
The 216 Indian Star Tortoises were being cared for by different wildlife rescue and treatment organisations before their repatriation. The tortoises were transported more than 800 kilometres to Tadoba in a specialised wildlife ambulance. They travelled in ventilated carriers with cushioning, with planned halts for health and hydration checks.
After reaching Tadoba-Andhari Tiger Reserve, all 216 tortoises underwent another medical examination and were kept overnight for rest and observation.
They were then released in batches into designated forest ranges. The release followed conservation protocols, including a scientifically determined male-to-female ratio, aimed at supporting the long-term sustainability of the rehabilitated population.
The launch of Project STRIPES addresses a recurring wildlife-crime challenge in Mumbai and the wider MMR, where Indian Star Tortoises are repeatedly recovered from illegal possession and trafficking networks.
The initiative aims to bring these repeated rescues under one organised process, where the tortoises can be assessed, cared for and eventually returned to suitable natural habitats.
The Tadoba release is the first major step under Project STRIPES, turning the idea of regular rehabilitation and repatriation of rescued Star Tortoises into a structured effort.
