Offi-shell-y open! Bidding begins for Tortoise Takeover sculptures

The online auction will be running in sync with the ‘in the room’ bids so that you can get your hands on a sculpture no matter where you are in the world.

The auction is to raise vital funds to help build new facilities for the precious reptiles and amphibians that are cared for at Jersey Zoo.

The Reptile and Amphibian House at Jersey Zoo is home to some of the most endangered species that Durrell works with but is in urgent need of improved and more sustainable facilities. These improvements will also support Durrell’s team working at rewilding sites around the world, who are undertaking vital research and providing frontline care to these species on the brink.

Durrell’s Director of Communications and Fundraising Alexandra Shears said: “The launch of the online auction for Tortoise Takeover is an important milestone for the trail. As well as bringing enjoyment to islanders and visitors alike, the trail will help us raise much needed funds to support our vital work with the many species of reptiles and amphibians we work with both here and in the wild.

“Being able to place bids whilst the trail is still on, is a new element for Tortoise Takeover, which we hope will bring even more excitement for the auction. The auction at Go Wild Gorillas was a phenomenal event and we hope the Tortoise Takeover auction will prove to be just as popular.”