World’s oldest land animal celebrates birthday

Share to Google Classroom

Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise, recently celebrated his 191st birthday on the island of St. Helena.

As the world’s oldest living land animal, Jonathan’s exact age is uncertain, but he was at least 50 years old when brought to the island in 1882.

This makes him at least 191 years old, potentially much older.

“In spite of losing his sense of smell and being virtually blind from cataracts, his appetite remains keen,” veterinarian Joe Hollins told GWR. “He is still being hand-fed once a week with a fortifying helping of fruit and vegetables by a small, dedicated team.”

Jonathan is a resident of Plantation House, the residence of St. Helena’s governor, and holds the title of the oldest turtle/chelonian in recorded history.

LEAVE A COMMENT
Give us your views on this article.
RECALL QUESTIONS
A variety of comprehension questions based on this article.
THINKING QUESTIONS
A selection of more detailed questions to show your understanding.
WORKSHEETS
A range of learning activities to complete once you have finished reading this article. 

1
A Yorkshire terrier named Lulu may soon become the world’s...
1
A robot named Revenger has just broken the world record...
1
New Zealand cyclist Dion Smith had an unexpected run-in during...

World & National News

1
A giant dinosaur sculpture in Taupō, New Zealand, has sparked...
1
Heavy rain has caused serious flooding along parts of Australia’s...
1
A team of researchers has discovered a massive 30-year-old fungus...
1
A bronze statue of Melania Trump, the former First Lady...
1
Former New Zealand Prime Minister Dame Jacinda Ardern delivered the...