50 giant tortoise sculptures have gone on show across the island, as Durrell launches its long-anticipated 'Tortoise Takover'.

They join the 65 young tortoises that are on display in the windows of the island's shops in June.

 The 115 sculptures make a trail that will take islanders across Jersey with a dedicated app.

Channel 103 went to the launch.

A bale of 50 tortoises has 'taken over' the island for the summer.
They join 65 'young' sculptures who have made home in shop windows across the island
Channel 103 went along to see what it's all about 🐢 pic.twitter.com/9cXJLDiJkU

— Channel 103 (@Channel103) July 1, 2023

Dr Lesley Dickie, CEO of Durrell says the trail has a 'multifold purpose'.

"It's to help our conservation work around the world with tortoises and turtles, amphibians and reptiles by having a better facility at Jersey Zoo to support our work.

But from a more fun perspective, it's providing this amazing utility for families, school groups, community groups, whoever it is for the whole of the summer to see these incredible tortoises and get out on our beautiful island."

The sculptures are on display until 31 August before they all go on auction to raise money for a new reptile house at the zoo.

Apart from one, which is going to be a gift to a special VIP.

Princess Anne's Tortoise 'Sanctuary'

'Sanctuary' by Gabriella Street, which is inspired by Her Royal Highness' fashion choices from the past and present, will be given to her after this summer's trail.

"Last year was the 50th anniversary of Her Royal Highness Princess Anne being a patron of Durrell, 50 years of commitment to our trust.

We wanted a really unusual gift, this tortoise will not go to auction it will go to Her Royal Highness and will likely go at Gatcombe her main home."

A final 'tortoise toodle-oo' farewell weekend will happen at Jersey Zoo between the 14-17 September.

You can find and 'unlock' all the tortoises by downloading the Takeover app.