The birth of tortoises native to Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos increases their U.S. population from 44 to 48. A few thousand remain globally, according to estimates by experts.

For years, Tiptoe has been a beloved sight in Pacific Palisades, quietly tromping along sidewalks and growing a major social media following. But last week, he lost his home to wildfires.

The tortoises imperiled by loss of habitat should be put on the endangered species list in four southern states, environmental groups said as they prepared to sue the U.S. government over the issue.