Jonathan the Tortoise: World’s oldest living land animal celebrates 191st birthday
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St. Helena's esteemed national treasure, predating the era of telephones, remains in robust health and is anticipated to reach his third century.
Jonathan, the world's oldest living terrestrial creature, a Seychelles giant tortoise, recently marked his 191st birthday.
Having come into existence around 1832, Jonathan predates significant innovations such as the introduction of postal stamps, the invention of the telephone, and the development of photography.
This iconic tortoise has witnessed the entirety of the U.S. Civil War, the majority of Queen Victoria's reign, the emergence and collapse of the Soviet Union, and both World Wars.
Residing on the island of Saint Helena since 1882, Jonathan has gracefully weathered the passage of time, including periods of historical significance.
Notably, he has engaged in a 26-year companionship with another male tortoise, demonstrating his ability to adapt and thrive in various circumstances.
When is Jonathan the Tortoise’s birthday?
Jonathan not only holds the distinction of being the world's oldest living terrestrial creature but also stands as the most senior member of the chelonian family, a reptile class encompassing tortoises, turtles, and terrapins.
Recognized as a national treasure in St Helena, Jonathan is featured on the reverse side of the local five pence coin. Despite being blind and devoid of a sense of smell, he spends his days freely roaming the grounds of the Governor's house.
According to his veterinarian, Joe Hollins, Jonathan is currently in good health, and the available indicators give rise to optimism that he may well achieve his third century, if not already attained. The exact date of his birth remains uncertain, with his age estimated based on his full maturity upon arriving on the island in 1882, suggesting he was at least 50 years old at that time.
The St Helena Island website acknowledges the ambiguity surrounding Jonathan's birthday, drawing a parallel with the arbitrary assignment of celebration dates, such as the commemoration of Jesus's birthday on December 25 without concrete evidence of its actual occurrence.
What has Jonathan’s life been like?
Age presents no obstacle to leading a fulfilling life, and Jonathan the Tortoise, at the impressive age of 191, exemplifies this truth.
In the 1980s, Jonathan experienced considerable irritability attributed to loneliness. However, he found solace and companionship in 1991 when he formed a bond with a mate named Frederica. Despite the absence of offspring from their union, it took 26 years to unveil the mystery that Frederica was, in fact, male.
Jonathan's enduring vitality includes a "good libido," as noted by his longtime veterinarian. According to Joe Hollins, Jonathan is frequently observed engaging in mating behavior with Emma and occasionally with Fred, showcasing a lack of sensitivity to gender distinctions in animals.
Despite the challenges of losing his sense of smell and virtually becoming blind due to cataracts, Jonathan exhibits no signs of slowing down in life. His voracious appetite persists, and a dedicated team ensures his well-being by hand-feeding him a nourishing mix of fruits and vegetables once a week. This regimen not only supplements his calorie intake but also provides essential elements for his metabolism, including vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. The Guinness World Records, who closely monitor Jonathan's activities, attest to his ongoing vitality and well-maintained condition.
Inventions that Jonathan is older than
1. The first modern bicycle - 1885
The penny-farthing, characterized by its unwieldy design with a large front wheel, was invented in the early 19th century. However, the first modern bicycle, featuring a chain for improved functionality, was developed around 1885.
2. The commercial lightbulb - 1879
Benjamin Franklin is credited with the 'discovery' of electricity in 1752 when he recognized that sparks generated by lightning strikes possessed power. However, the commercialization of the lightbulb did not occur until 1879.
3. First powered airship - 1852
The hot-air balloon marked the inception of powered airships, being a hydrogen-filled balloon propelled by a steam engine.
4. The photograph - 1839
The inaugural 'daguerreotype' images were produced in 1839. From that point onward, a staggering 13 trillion photos have been captured.
5. The revolver - 1836
In 1836, Samuel Colt secured a patent for the initial commercially prosperous revolver. These firearms played a pivotal role in various conflicts, including their deployment in significant wars such as the US Civil War, which took place from 1860 to 1864.
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