In brief
In a remarkable conservation milestone, a pair of Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises, aged about 100, have welcomed four hatchlings at Philadelphia Zoo, marking the first successful breeding of this species in the zoo's 150-year history.
The Philadelphia Zoo has announced the joyous arrival of four hatchling Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises, born to a 100-year-old pair named Abrazzo and Mommy, who arrived at the zoo in 1932. This significant event, celebrated as the first successful hatching of its kind at the zoo, underscores the critical status of these tortoises, which are endangered in the wild with fewer than 50 residing in U.S. zoos.The hatchlings began emerging from their eggs on February 27, with the zoo’s dedicated animal care team closely monitoring additional eggs still in incubation. Weighing between 70 and 80 grams, the hatchlings are currently being cared for behind the scenes at the Reptile and Amphibian House, growing and thriving under specialized conditions. An official public unveiling is scheduled for April 23, coinciding with the 93rd anniversary of Mommy's arrival.The zoo's president and CEO, Jo-Elle Mogerman, expressed profound excitement over this achievement, highlighting its significance in the context of conservation and genetic diversity, integral to the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ breeding program. She noted that generational visitors have witnessed Mommy throughout her nearly a century-long presence at the zoo, marking a connection across time.“This milestone emphasizes our vision for the hatchlings to contribute to a sustainable population of Galapagos tortoises, ensuring their survival on Earth for the next century,” Mogerman stated. Abrazzo joined the zoo family only in 2020 and his partnership with Mommy has now inspired hope for the future of this remarkable species.
