A new 600 m² space on the panoramic terrace of the museum was inaugurated on Tuesday by H.S.H. Princess Charlène of Monaco, accompanied by children from the Principality. The Turtle Island will open its doors to the public on April 25 and will enhance the museum visit experience in a playful way while raising visitors’ awareness of the cause of both land and sea turtles.
Starting Wednesday, the general public will be able to discover this new development at the Oceanographic Museum of Monaco, located on the west panoramic terrace offering a 360° view of Monaco, between sea and mountains.
A new center dedicated to the living:
A space dedicated to the discovery and protection of turtles, both land and sea turtles. Children will be able to see the Sulcata tortoises, which are the third largest terrestrial turtles in the world, from Mali—true ambassadors of a fascinating world spanning several millennia.
Fascinating animals, coming from the dawn of time, at the heart of myths and legends, the arrival of our 7 turtles has not been a “smooth journey.”
It is within the framework of the friendship and cooperation ties between the Republic of Mali and the Principality of Monaco that these turtles were offered to H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco last February during his official trip. H.S.H. Prince Albert II wished to entrust them to the Oceanographic Museum to create a space for discovery and public awareness for the protection of endangered turtles.
Thanks to the Monegasque company ES-KO, specialized in logistical transport in tensioned areas and privileged contacts established in Mali, they were able to be taken care of and transported by plane from Bamako. After a long journey by air and road, the turtles have arrived safely at the Oceanographic Museum and are in good health.
Called Sulcata tortoises (named for the deep grooves visible on their shells), they are aged between 2 and 20 years and weigh over 20 kilograms for the largest ones. They will roam an 80 m² landscaped enclosure. A ground made of earth and sand, adorned with plants, rocks, tree stumps, and watering points, will allow them, under the watchful eyes of young and old visitors, to move, shelter, drink, and cool off.
They will also be able to shelter in the “turtle bubble,” which will be maintained at a specific temperature to protect them from the lowest temperatures. This 20 m² bubble, due to its location and construction, will ensure a good observation quality for the public.
