Meet Jonathan, the tortoise believed to be the world's oldest living land animal

Nature · Published 9 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Living on the grounds of Saint Helena’s Plantation House, Jonathan is a Seychelles giant tortoise whose age is estimated to be around 193 years. Despite losing his sight and sense of smell, this remarkable creature continues to thrive, captivating visitors and even meeting members of the British Royal Family.

Jonathan is a Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa) who has become a global icon of longevity. While his exact birth date is unknown, he is believed to have been hatched around 1832. This estimate is based on the fact that he appeared as a fully grown adult—roughly 50 years old—when he was brought to Saint Helena from the Seychelles in 1882 as a gift to Governor Sir William Grey-Wilson.

His life has been marked by significant historical milestones and royal encounters. He has been photographed with Queen Elizabeth II during her youth and has met Prince Philip and Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh. Despite his advanced age, Jonathan has lived through 31 governors' terms and has been officially recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest living chelonian known to science.

Caring for a centenarian requires specialized attention. Veterinarian Joe Hollins, who arrived on the island in 2009, has managed Jonathan's health, particularly after finding him in poor condition. To combat cataracts and vision loss, Hollins often hand-feeds him a diet of grass, hay, and seasonal fruits like apples and bananas. While Jonathan lost his sense of smell in 2015, he maintains excellent hearing, often reacting to the sounds of tourists or even nearby tennis matches.

Despite rumors of his passing on social media in April 2026, Saint Helena officials confirmed that Jonathan remains alive and well. He continues to roam the governor's residence alongside companions like Frederik, David, and Emma, proving that even at nearly two centuries old, life can still be full of activity.

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