04/12/2026
Jonathan, the world’s oldest known land animal, has passed at approximately 193 years old on the island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean.
A Seychelles giant tortoise, Jonathan was born around 1832 and brought to Saint Helena in 1882 as a gift to the island’s governor. He lived for 144 years on the grounds of Plantation House.
He was recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest living land animal and the oldest tortoise ever recorded. Over his lifetime, he outlasted 8 British monarchs, 40 U.S. presidents, and 31 governors of Saint Helena.
Jonathan lived through two world wars and was born before inventions like the telephone, the light bulb, and the first photograph of a person. Even in his later years, with limited sight and sense of smell, he remained cared for and was hand-fed by veterinarian Joe Hollins.
He is survived by three companion tortoises: David, Emma, and Frederik.
