Post by : Raina
Al-Fahim
Gramma, the cherished Galápagos tortoise and the San Diego Zoo's oldest resident, has passed away at the remarkable age of 141 years on November 20, succumbing to age-related health complications.
Originating from her natural habitat, Gramma made her way to the San Diego Zoo from the Bronx Zoo, part of the zoo's inaugural group of Galápagos tortoises between 1928 and 1931. Over her extensive life, she became an endearing fixture for visitors, known for her calm demeanor. Gramma lived through two World Wars and saw 20 U.S. presidents come and go.
Affectionately referred to as “the Queen of the Zoo” by her caretakers, Gramma faced health challenges in her later years, particularly bone-related issues, which ultimately led to the heart-wrenching decision to euthanize her.
Her influence deeply resonated across generations of visitors, many of whom fondly recall their early experiences at the zoo, returning with children to introduce them to the iconic tortoise.
Galápagos tortoises are renowned for their longevity, frequently living over 100 years in the wild and sometimes nearly twice as long in captivity. The oldest recorded Galápagos tortoise, Harriet, lived up to 175 years before passing away in 2006 at the Australia Zoo.
These magnificent tortoises come from 15 subspecies native to the Galápagos Islands, with three currently extinct and others listed as vulnerable or critically endangered. Ongoing conservation initiatives have seen thousands of juvenile tortoises bred in captivity and reintroduced to the wild, aiding in the preservation of various subspecies.
Recent successes in Galápagos tortoise breeding programs include the arrival of four hatchlings at the Philadelphia Zoo and a 135-year-old tortoise becoming a father for the first time at Zoo Miami.
Gramma’s enduring spirit and gentle nature will be remembered warmly by all who encountered her, underlining the vital efforts needed for preserving these ancient species for generations to come.
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