In brief
The remarkable tortoise, believed to have been born around 1832, has outlived empires and generations, becoming a symbol of endurance on the island of St Helena. His long-time caregiver expressed heartfelt sorrow, celebrating Jonathan's peaceful life and unique legacy.
The world’s oldest known tortoise, Jonathan, has died at an estimated age of 193, reported his veterinarian, Joe Hollins. The unfortunate news was shared on social media, where Hollins expressed his heartbreak over the loss of this beloved creature on the remote island of St Helena.
Heartbroken to share that our beloved Jonathan, the world's oldest living land animal, has passed away today peacefully on St Helena, Hollins announced. He described Jonathan as a gentle giant who witnessed the passage of time through empires, wars, and generations of humanity.
Jonathan, who is thought to have hatched around 1832, spent most of his life on St Helena. Over the years, he met several prominent figures, including Queen Elizabeth II and the Duke of Edinburgh during their visit to the island in 1947. Hollins reminisced about his time caring for the tortoise, recalling the moments spent hand-feeding him bananas and observing his calm demeanor.
He leaves behind a legacy of resilience and longevity that inspired millions. Rest easy, old friend. You'll be missed more than words can say, the veterinarian stated.
While Jonathan's exact age was not definitively known, experts believe he was around 50 years old when he was brought to St Helena in 1882, as a fully grown tortoise. He lived through the reigns of eight British monarchs and left an indelible mark on local culture.
Despite losing his sense of smell and sight in recent years, Jonathan was reported to be happy and healthy until his passing. He was known for his remarkable presence, widely recognized not just for his age but also for the charm he brought to those who had the pleasure of knowing him.
In a notable event in 2024, Jonathan was presented with a Guinness World Record certificate for being the oldest known land animal, a testament to his extraordinary life.
