Though spotting the elusive Günther’s gecko high up in the canopy can be challenging, IAA is also home to a much more noticeable reptile species, the charismatic giant Aldabra tortoise. These tortoises were introduced to Mauritius as an analogue species. The term “analogue” may conjure images of old watch faces or the radio in your parent’s basement, but in the realm of conservation it has a much more pertinent meaning. An analogue species is one that fulfills a similar role in an ecosystem to another and can therefore be used as a replacement to achieve conservation goals. Mauritius and its surrounding islets once hosted the Mascarene tortoise, a long-necked species that played a pivotal ecological role by grazing on trees and bushes, thereby dispersing seeds. Their massive size meant they carved new pathways through the forest as they ambled along, stabilizing the soil, and creating openings in the undergrowth.  Unfortunately, this species has gone completely extinct. Enter the analogue, the giant Aldabra tortoise. Similar in size and diet requirements, this species has been carefully introduced in a controlled setting to a few offshore islands in Mauritius to stunning results! The tortoises have settled into their new home brilliantly and are now contributing to restoring natural ecosystem functioning.