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Jonathan the Tortoise: The World’s Oldest Living Land Animal and Icon of Longevity
Meet the world's oldest land animal, a 192-year-old tortoise
- [Associated Press]
Key Points:
Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise, is confirmed as the oldest living land animal at 193+ years.
Resides at Plantation House, Saint Helena, and has outlived generations of humans and fellow tortoises.
A symbol of resilience and longevity, captivating visitors and dignitaries alike.
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Introduction
Jonathan the tortoise is not just any tortoise—he is the world’s oldest living land animal, a Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa) who has captured hearts worldwide. Born around 1832 and living on the remote island of Saint Helena for nearly two centuries, Jonathan has become a living testament to longevity, resilience, and the quiet majesty of nature. Despite a recent viral hoax claiming his death, Jonathan continues to roam the grounds of Plantation House, the official residence of Saint Helena’s governor, thriving under the care of dedicated veterinarians.
Early Life and Arrival on Saint Helena
Jonathan was brought to Saint Helena in 1882 as a fully grown adult from the Seychelles, reportedly as a gift to Governor Sir William Grey-Wilson. While his exact birthdate remains unknown, experts estimate he was born around 1832 based on his size at arrival, as Seychelles giant tortoises reach full adulthood at about 50 years old. Some sources suggest Jonathan may even be approaching 200 years of age. In 2022, Saint Helena officials assigned him an official birthday of December 4.
Jonathan, the Seychelles giant tortoise, on the grounds of Plantation House
Born c. 1832, Jonathan is the world's oldest tortoise and possibly the world's oldest living land animal. He is pictured on the lawn at Plantation House, the official residence of the governor of Saint Helena island.
© Nmcavaney/Dreamstime.com
image source: britannica.com
Photographs from between 1882 and 1886 show Jonathan shortly after his arrival. He has also been photographed alongside Queen Elizabeth II and other dignitaries over the decades, documenting his presence through history.
Life at Plantation House
Jonathan lives on the lush grounds of Plantation House, where he shares space with younger resident tortoises—Frederik, David, and Emma. Until 1918, he had an unnamed female companion. Weighing around 400 pounds (180 kg), Jonathan was once in poor health, but veterinarian Joe Hollins, who began caring for him in 2009, supplemented his diet with fruits, vegetables, and hand-feeding when necessary due to cataracts and vision loss.
Jonathan surrounded by schoolchildren
Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise living on Saint Helena who is believed to be the oldest living land animal ever, is popular among local and overseas visitors. Though his vision is diminished and he has lost his sense of smell, his hearing is strong, and he is said to be attracted to the chatter of people.
© Darrinhenry/Dreamstime.com
image source: britannica.com
Nicknamed “Jono” by his caretakers, Jonathan has maintained an active and curious lifestyle. He enjoys sunbathing on warm days and retreating into leaf piles during cooler weather. Despite losing his sense of smell in 2015, Jonathan relies on his excellent hearing to navigate and has been seen captivated by tennis matches and croquet games.
Popularity and Cultural Impact
Jonathan has become a local celebrity and global icon. He has featured on Saint Helena postage stamps and coins and has captured the attention of tourists, scientists, and dignitaries alike. Jonathan is even credited with some lighthearted matchmaking stories and mischievous moments, such as overturning benches or sitting on croquet balls during play.
Jonathan on the lawn, with Plantation House in the background
The giant Seychelles tortoise Jonathan on the lawn at Plantation House, the official residence of the governor of Saint Helena Island.
© Nmcavaney/Dreamstime.com
image source: britannica.com
His remarkable longevity earned him recognition in the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest living chelonian and land animal. Despite his age, Jonathan remains a symbol of resilience and the enduring spirit of life.
Viral Hoax and Continued Life
On April 1, 2026, a viral hoax claimed Jonathan had died at the age of 193, causing widespread concern. The post impersonated veterinarian Joe Hollins and even sought cryptocurrency donations. Experts, officials, and Hollins himself quickly clarified that Jonathan was alive and well. Saint Helena’s government confirmed on April 2, 2026, that Jonathan continues to thrive on the island, disproving the viral misinformation.
Conclusion
Jonathan the tortoise embodies the extraordinary potential of life and endurance. Having survived nearly two centuries, he has witnessed historical transformations and become a symbol of hope, longevity, and continuity.
His story reminds us of the importance of conservation, attentive care, and celebrating the remarkable creatures we share the planet with. Jonathan is not just the oldest tortoise—he is a living connection to history, nature, and the enduring spirit of life itself.
Key Points Summary
Oldest living land animal and Seychelles giant tortoise at 193+ years.
Resides at Plantation House, Saint Helena, cared for by Joe Hollins.
Survived viral death hoax in 2026, confirming his continued vitality.
Recognized in Guinness World Records and featured on stamps and coins.
Symbol of longevity, resilience, and conservation awareness.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How old is Jonathan the tortoise?
A: Jonathan is believed to be around 193 years old, born circa 1832.
Q: Where does Jonathan live?
A: He lives on the grounds of Plantation House, the governor’s residence on Saint Helena.
Q: Has Jonathan appeared in media or met famous people?
A: Yes, Jonathan has been photographed with Queen Elizabeth II, appeared on stamps and coins, and gained worldwide attention.
Q: What does Jonathan eat?
A: His diet includes grass, hay, seasonal fruits, and vegetables like apples, bananas, lettuce, and carrots.
Q: Has Jonathan ever been sick or lost senses?
A: He had cataracts causing vision loss, and in 2015 he lost his sense of smell but retains excellent hearing.
Q: Did Jonathan ever have a companion tortoise?
A: Yes, he shared space with three younger tortoises—Frederik, David, and Emma—and had a female companion until 1918.
Q: Was the viral report of Jonathan’s death true?
A: No, the 2026 viral hoax was false. Jonathan is alive and well, confirmed by Saint Helena’s government and his veterinarian.
Sources
Fox News – Viral hoax falsely claimed Jonathan the tortoise had died; confirmed alive on Saint Helena.
https://www.foxnews.com/travel/worlds-oldest-known-land-animal-alive-after-viral-death-hoax-fools-thousandsBritannica – Detailed biography of Jonathan, his care, history, and popularity.
https://www.britannica.com/animal/Jonathan-giant-tortoise
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