Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise living on the island of St Helena, has extended his record as the world’s oldest living land animal at 194 years old. He has also been named a Guinness World Records Icon by the record-keeping organisation. Jonathan is believed to have been born no later than 1832, though researchers think he could be even older.
Jonathan arrived on St Helena from the Seychelles in 1882. At that time, he was already a fully grown adult and at least 50 years old. He now lives in the paddock of the Governor’s Residence, where he is a much-loved resident of the island.
St Helena Governor Nigel Phillips said Jonathan is a symbol of the island’s strength and care for the environment. Over his long life, Jonathan has met royalty, appeared in wedding photographs and delighted many tourists. Local people, known as Saints, see him as a special part of their island’s story.
Jonathan, also known as Jono, has lost his sight and sense of smell. Even so, his carers say he still eats, sunbathes and mates.
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