World’s Oldest Land Animal Turns 187 Years

Jonathan the tortoise was born around 1832. Today he is 187 years old, the oldest known land animal on the planet.

He lives on the quiet island of St Helena, where he spends his days moving slowly, eating well and enjoying the sunshine.

His life has lasted so long that he has seen almost two hundred years of human history.

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From The Seychelles To A New Home

Jonathan began his life in the Seychelles, but no one knows much about his early years.

In 1882 he was brought to St Helena as a gift for the island’s governor. He was already about fifty years old when he arrived.

Since then, he has lived at Plantation House, a big old mansion with wide lawns and tall trees.

Over many years he formed a close bond with the island vet, Joe Hollins, who cares for him with great affection.

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A Witness To History

Jonathan has been alive longer than most buildings, inventions and countries we know today.

He was already living when Queen Victoria wore the crown. He saw the world change from horse carts to cars and airplanes.

He lived through two world wars and watched as new inventions like the light bulb, the camera and the first skyscraper came into the world.

While everything around him changed fast, Jonathan kept moving at his calm and steady pace.

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His Simple And Peaceful Daily Life

Even at his great age, Jonathan enjoys his routine. He cannot see because of cataracts, and he cannot smell much, but he still hears very well.

He also loves to eat. His meals include bananas, apples, lettuce hearts, cabbage and cucumbers. On warm days he stretches out his neck and legs to enjoy the sun.

On cold days he pushes into soft leaves to stay warm. He knows when it is feeding time, and he often relaxes beside his tortoise friends Emma and Fred.

A Special Part Of St Helena

People on the island love Jonathan deeply. He is not just a tortoise. He is a symbol of strength, patience and long life.

Visitors from around the world come to see him, and the island protects his calm home so he can live without stress or noise. Jonathan brings pride and joy to everyone on St Helena.

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Why Jonathan Matters

Jonathan’s long life shows how strong giant tortoises can be when they are given care and a safe home.

Scientists think he may belong to a rare Seychelles tortoise species, with only about eighty left in the world.

His survival helps people understand how important it is to protect these gentle animals.

A Living Piece Of The Past

At 187 years old, Jonathan is more than a record holder. He is a living link to a world that no longer exists.

As he grazes on the soft grass or rests under the sun, he carries nearly two centuries of life with him.

On the peaceful island of St Helena, Jonathan continues to inspire, reminding us that even the slowest creature can have an amazing story.