There are some animals that have the ability to live longer, than what is considered normal for their species.. Among them Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise has become quite famous for his longevity. Not is he the oldest living land mammal in the world. He also holds the record for being the longest lived tortoise ever.
Today we celebrate an milestone in Jonathans life; his 191st birthday! Although his exact birth date remains unknown Guinness World Records officially recognizes him as 191 years old. December officials on Saint Helena Island, where Jonathan resides commemorated his birthday.
It's important to note that Jonathans remarkable age is actually an estimate; there's a chance he might be even older. This estimation is based on his arrival at Saint Helena from the Seychelles back in 1882 when he was described as " mature." This implies that he was already at 50 years old at that time. So it can be deduced that his birth year would be no later than 1832.
While its not uncommon for tortoises to live past 100 years of age due, to their lifespans Jonathan has surpassed the high life expectancy of his species and continues to set impressive records along the way.
In 2019 at the age of 187 he was officially recognized as the living land animal, by Guinness World Records.. Last year when he turned 190 he earned the title of "oldest chelonian," which includes tortoises, turtles and terrapins. This surpassed the record set by Tu'i Malila, who lived for least 188 years until passing away in 1965.
It's mind boggling to grasp how long Jonathan has been alive. When he was born in 1832 Andrew Jackson served as the US president while Queen Victoria reigned over England. His life spans across eras that include the Civil War and both World Wars; he existed well before humans took to the skies and witnessed Neil Armstrongs moon landing at the age of 137. If only he could speak, imagine all the captivating stories he could share.
After experiencing much history firsthand Jonathan remains vibrant and thoroughly enjoys his life. He holds a status as a figure on Saint Helena where he resides within the official grounds of the Governor.
"Jonathan is an icon here " expressed Teeny Lucy, chairperson for our SPCA. "He is a gentleman who has witnessed moments, throughout his lifetime.""He arrived on St. Helena in 1882 as a grown adult and throughout the years he has witnessed generations of people coming and going " said the woman.
She further added, "As the land animal, in the world he holds a sort of status here. He carries himself with dignity and interacts in a manner long as people approach him slowly. We all have a fondness for him."
Even after two centuries have passed Jonathan continues to show no signs of slowing down and remains relatively healthy according to his veterinarians.
"Despite losing his sense of smell and being nearly blind due to cataracts his appetite remains robust " veterinarian Joe Hollins shared with Guinness. "He still receives hand fed meals a week from a team consisting of fruits and vegetables that provide him with essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals and trace elements necessary for his metabolism."
"It is truly remarkable to think that this gentle giant has outlived every land dwelling creature, on Earth including the human race " he added.
Happy 191st birthday, to Jonathan, the tortoise who holds the title of being the oldest living land mammal, in history! We are filled with hope and excitement as all signs point towards him reaching his century.
Theres even a possibility that he may have already accomplished this incredible milestone.
Lets celebrate this occasion by sharing his story and sending our birthday wishes to Jonathan! 🎂🐢
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