Since 1941

Posted on Tue June 1, 2021.

Today is a big day as Agatha, our adored radiated tortoise, celebrates her 80th birthday!

Not only did Agatha enjoy her morning serenade and treats, but she did so in the absolute comfort of the toasty warm Animal Care Centre on this cool winter’s day. Radiated tortoises are critically endangered, so we do all that we can to protect and care for Agatha and her species.

Indigenous to Madagascar, these tortoises occupy a narrow band of spiny forest along the island’s southwest coast. Available information indicates that the species has disappeared entirely from about 40% of its past range through a combination of habitat loss and exploitation, and that remaining populations have been severely depleted by ongoing land destruction, bushmeat consumption, and even sadder for ornamental purposes. It is estimated that their population has declined by 80% over the past 5 decades.

Our Zoological Director, Narinda Beukes is the regional manager of the International Studbook for Radiated Tortoises which records the captive population which assists in contributing to the declining wild population. As a mom to 5 young Radiated Tortoises, who hatched 2 years ago, Agatha has made a phenomenal contribution to the population management of these rare and beautiful Reptilia.

The oldest radiated tortoise known to man, lived for an estimated 188 years! So, if wisdom comes with age, then Agatha will surpass us all, with an entire century ahead of her.

As a valuable ambassador for her species, her message is crystal clear; protect wild habitats. It is a responsibility that we all share, and we need to make better behavioural and lifestyle decisions, for the well-being of our planet.

Agatha, may your many years ahead be filled with juicy treats, sunny days and the promise of a better tomorrow for our planet.

Further Reading

In Loving Memory of Prickles

Prickles came into our care as a tiny, wide-eyed orphan—rescued after his mother was tragically killed by dogs on a nearby farm. From that moment on, he became part of our family, wrapped in warmth and raised with the kind of love and devotion that only a little abandoned porcupine could inspire.

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One Year Later

The Flood That Tested Us – and the Strength That Carried Us Through Exactly one year ago, on 4 June 2024, Cango Wildlife Ranch faced one of the most devastating natural events in our 40+ year history. Today, we pause—not to relive the hardship, but to reflect on the resilience, bravery, and unity that saw us through.

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From Blueprints to Branches

How Retired Architect Joseph Zwick left a lasting mark at Cango Wildlife Ranch, Oudtshoorn — June 2025 Conservation is often powered by passionate volunteers — and every so often, one leaves behind a legacy that echoes long after they’ve gone. This past May, retired architect Joseph Otto Zwick spent three weeks enriching the lives of lemurs, aviary birds, and staff alike during his stay as part of the Wild Animal Volunteers program.

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