Starting September 19th, Lonesome George won’t be so lonely anymore. Remember him? George was the last giant tortoise of his species, which went extinct due to human activities. He passed away in 2012, living up to his name as the last of his kind. Efforts were made to find him a female mate, and while some eggs were produced, none hatched. It was a race against time, and ultimately, extinction won.

But there’s some good news to brighten things up. First, around 17 hybrid relatives of George have been found on another island, about 50 kilometers from Pinta Island, George’s original home. Second, after his death, a team of expert taxidermists preserved George’s body to be displayed at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Residents and visitors alike can view this iconic tortoise from Ecuador until January 4th, 2015. After that, he’ll head back to Ecuador… but who knows where else he might be seen? George could become a global sensation!

Weighing in at 165 pounds and stretching 5 feet long, this tortoise, a member of the Chelonoidis abingdonii species, symbolizes ecological diversity and Ecuadorian heritage. His international tour would highlight the importance of conserving endangered species. Currently, there isn’t a suitable place in the Galapagos to preserve his body, which makes the idea of sending George to top museums around the world practical. It would not only allow his fans to see him without traveling far but also help raise funds to eventually build a proper resting place for him on Pinta Island.

Since his discovery in 1971, George has been a surprising but powerful symbol for conservation, communicating the message with greater impact than most humans. We have an ethical duty to let his legacy continue. George should be where he can make the most difference. Rest in peace, dear friend, and keep inspiring us.