Endangered Galapagos Tortoises Become First-Time Parents at Nearly 100
In a heartwarming and historic moment for conservation efforts, two endangered Galapagos tortoises at the Philadelphia Zoo have become first-time parents—at almost 100 years old. The milestone has delighted animal lovers and conservationists worldwide, not only because of its rarity but also due to its implications for the species' survival.
The Philadelphia Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the United States, announced the joyful news that Mommy, a 97-year-old female Galapagos tortoise, and Abrazzo, her 96-year-old male counterpart, have successfully produced four hatchlings. This is the first time Galapagos tortoise hatchlings have been born at the zoo in its 150-year history, marking a monumental moment for the zoo and for species conservation.
Mommy, a long-time resident of the Philadelphia Zoo, has called it home since 1932. She arrived at the zoo at just seven years old and has lived there for 93 years, making her one of the institution’s most cherished and iconic animals. Abrazzo, on the other hand, is a newer addition, having joined the zoo family in December 2020. Though both tortoises are approaching the century mark, they are still considered middle-aged for their species, as Galapagos tortoises can live up to 200 years.
The zoo confirmed that the first of the four hatchlings arrived on February 27, with the remaining three hatching over the following days. The last of the baby tortoises emerged on March 6. These tiny tortoises, weighing between 70 and 80 grams each, are currently being cared for in the Reptile and Amphibian House, where they are thriving behind the scenes—eating, growing, and adjusting to their new environment.
This rare and significant birth has garnered international attention, particularly due to the advanced age of the parents. Mommy has now become the oldest first-time mother of her species, a distinction that underlines both the dedication of the zoo’s animal care team and the unique nature of this event. The zoo has emphasized Mommy’s importance in conservation efforts, noting that she is considered one of the most genetically valuable Galapagos tortoises in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan. This program is designed to manage and conserve endangered species populations within AZA-accredited zoos.
The Philadelphia Zoo plans to unveil the hatchlings to the public on April 23—a date that coincides with the 93rd anniversary of Mommy’s arrival at the zoo. It promises to be a special day of celebration for the zoo, its visitors, and the wider community who have long admired Mommy and her journey.
Jo-Elle Mogerman, the President and CEO of the Philadelphia Zoo, described the birth as a "significant milestone in the history of the Philadelphia Zoo" and expressed immense excitement to share the news with the city and the world. The event not only showcases the zoo’s successful conservation and breeding efforts but also reinforces its role in global efforts to protect endangered species.
Lauren Augustine, the zoo’s Director of Herpetology, shared updates on the baby tortoises’ progress, stating that they are doing “fantastic.” She described them as “about the size of a tennis ball” and noted their feisty personalities. While it’s unlikely the young tortoises will be physically close to their parents, that decision is purely based on safety. With Mommy weighing 127 kilograms and Abrazzo tipping the scales at 185 kilograms, there’s a risk the adults could unintentionally injure the hatchlings due to their sheer size.
Galapagos tortoises are among the most iconic reptiles in the world. Native to the Galapagos Islands of Ecuador, they are known for their enormous size, slow-paced lifestyle, and incredible longevity. However, due to habitat loss, hunting in the past centuries, and the introduction of invasive species, Galapagos tortoises have become endangered. Conservation programs like the one at the Philadelphia Zoo play a vital role in ensuring the species' survival, especially through breeding initiatives that introduce new genetic diversity into the population.
This heartening story serves as a reminder that age is just a number, especially in the animal kingdom. It also highlights the impact and importance of long-term conservation efforts, not just for saving individual animals, but for preserving entire species for future generations. With the successful birth of these four hatchlings, hope is renewed for the continued survival of one of nature’s oldest and most majestic creatures.
As the zoo prepares to introduce the baby tortoises to the public, the event stands as a testament to resilience, patience, and the power of conservation. The story of Mommy, Abrazzo, and their hatchlings is sure to inspire and educate zoo visitors for years to come.