Jonathan Is 193 Years Old – He's the Oldest Living Land Animal on Earth

Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa), is officially recognized as the oldest living land animal on Earth.

Experts estimate that he hatched around 1832, making him approximately 193 years old today.

Jonathan

His remarkable longevity has earned him two Guinness World Records titles – the oldest living land animal and the oldest tortoise ever recorded.

His age was estimated after arriving on Saint Helena

Jonathan did not remain in his native Seychelles. In 1882, he was brought to the island of Saint Helena, a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic, as a gift.

He was already fully grown when he arrived. Since giant tortoises typically reach adulthood at around 50 years of age, scientists used that information to estimate his hatch year. The estimate is considered highly conservative, meaning Jonathan could actually be even older.

He has witnessed nearly two centuries of history

Jonathan was born before the invention of photography, the light bulb, and the automobile.

He has lived through two World Wars, the rise and fall of numerous empires, and the presidencies of more than 40 U.S. presidents.

Still going strong despite his age

Jonathan has spent well over a century roaming the lawns of Plantation House, the Governor's residence on Saint Helena. Despite his extraordinary age, he remains active, although he has developed several signs of old age.

He has lost his eyesight due to cataracts and can no longer smell, but his hearing remains excellent, allowing him to recognize and respond to his caretaker's voice.

His health is monitored by a specialized veterinary team. Because he can no longer detect fresh food by smell, veterinarian Joe Hollins hand-feeds him once a week with high-calorie fruits and vegetables. His favorite treats include bananas, apples, pears, cabbage, lettuce, carrots, and cucumbers.

Thanks to his carefully managed diet, the condition of his shell has improved and his energy levels remain high. Jonathan also continues to display a healthy libido and occasionally attempts to mate with the other tortoises that share his habitat.

False reports of his death spread online

Jonathan has become a national symbol of Saint Helena and even appears on the reverse side of the island's five-pence coin.

Several months ago, a false report claiming that Jonathan had died spread on the social media platform X. Some international media outlets repeated the claim before officials from Saint Helena and Governor Nigel Phillips quickly confirmed that it was untrue.

They stated that Jonathan remains alive, healthy, and continues his daily routine in the Governor's garden. He remains one of the world's most extraordinary examples of longevity and a living reminder of the remarkable lifespan that giant tortoises can achieve.