The world’s oldest known tortoise. Jonathan, has died at an estimated age of 193, the vet who cared for him has said. “Heartbroken to share that our beloved Jonathan, the world’s oldest living land animal, has passed away today peacefully on St Helena,” Joe Hollins wrote on social media late on Wednesday.

A Legacy of Longevity

“This gentle giant outlived empires. Wars, and generations of humans,” Hollins said of his long-time charge, who is thought to have hatched around the year 1832. He spent most of his life on the remote South Atlantic island of St Helena, where he met Queen Elizabeth II, as well as the Duke of Edinburgh and House of Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle.

Hollins said in his statement: “As his vet for many years, it was an honour to care for him – hand-feeding bananas, watching him bask in the sun, and marvelling at his quiet wisdom. He leaves behind a legacy of resilience and longevity that inspired millions. Rest easy, old friend. You’ll be missed more than words can say.”

A Historical Presence

Jonathan’s exact age is unknown, but a photograph taken in 1882 shows that he was fully grown when he was first brought to the island – where he lived on the grounds of Plantation House, the official residence of the Governor of St Helena. Experts say this suggests he was about 50 years old by that time.

Jonathan lived through the reigns of eight British monarchs and met both George VI and the future Elizabeth II during their visit to the island in 1947. The giant tortoise met Sir Lindsay in 2024, when he was presented with a Guinness World Record certificate recognising him as the oldest known land animal in the world.

At the time, Hollins said that although Jonathan had lost his sense of smell and his sight, he still appeared to be very happy and healthy. Jonathan’s presence on St Helena had become a symbol of endurance and calm, drawing visitors and admirers from around the world.

Remembering Jonathan

Jonathan’s death marks the end of an era for St Helena, where he was a beloved figure and a living testament to the longevity of giant tortoises. His life spanned nearly two centuries, witnessing the evolution of technology, politics, and culture around the globe.

“He was a quiet giant who made a big impact on everyone who met him,” said a spokesperson for the island. “His calm demeanor and remarkable age made him a unique ambassador for St Helena and for conservation efforts around the world.”

Jonathan was one of the last surviving members of the Aldabra giant tortoise species, a group known for their exceptional lifespans. His death has prompted discussions about the importance of preserving such species for future generations.

Hollins has requested that Jonathan’s memory be honored through continued efforts to protect and care for giant tortoises in captivity and in the wild. “His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who knew him and in the many lives he touched,” he said.

The island of St Helena is now preparing for a period of mourning, as the community reflects on the life of the world’s oldest known tortoise and the impact he had on the world.