Saving Mojave Desert Tortoises with Technology
Ravens eating baby tortoises? Tim Sheilds has one thing to say: Nevermore!
Tim Shields is a biologist who has observed the decline of the Mojave Desert tortoise population over several decades. His company, Hardshell Labs, turns to innovative and high-tech strategies to combat the primary threat to the tortoises: an overpopulation of ravens. These ravens prey on young tortoises, significantly impacting their survival rates.
In 2023, Eco-Hack!, a short documentary film directed by Brett Marty and Josh Izenberg, followed Shields’ quest to save the baby turtles.
The Mojave Desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii) is a keystone species in the Mojave Desert ecosystem. These tortoises are known for their slow growth and long lifespans, with some individuals living up to 80 years. They primarily inhabit arid, sandy areas and are highly adapted to their environment, spending up to 95% of their lives in underground burrows to escape extreme temperatures.
Unfortunately, Mojave Desert tortoises have faced a dramatic population decline over the past several decades. Habitat loss due to urban development, climate change, and predation by an increasing number of ravens—attracted by human activity—are significant threats.
Young tortoises, in particular, are vulnerable, as their soft shells make them easy prey for ravens. Conservation efforts, including habitat protection and predator management, are critical to ensuring the survival of this iconic species.
Frustrated by the lack of progress through traditional conservation methods, Shields employs various unconventional tools, including drones, laser cannons, and even exploding tortoise shells, to deter the ravens and protect the tortoises.
“Eco-Hack!” was featured in several film festivals, including the Wild & Scenic Film Festival and the International Wildlife Film Festival, where it has received acclaim for Shields’ innovative approach to wildlife conservation and the films its powerful message about the importance of protecting endangered species.
You can learn more about Shields and his team at the Hardshell Labs website.
