From Jonathan to Alagba: 5 Oldest Turtles in the World
Turtles have always fascinated humans with their slow pace, unique shells, and remarkable lifespans. Among the many wonders of the animal kingdom, some turtles have become legends not just for their age but also for the histories and stories that surround them. In this article, we take a closer look at five of the oldest turtles in the world, including the famous Jonathan, the longest-living land animal known to science, and Alagba, a cultural icon in Nigeria. These turtles have lived through centuries, survived wars, witnessed revolutions, and have become symbols of longevity and resilience.
Let’s explore their incredible lives and the mysteries of their longevity.
1. Jonathan – The World’s Oldest Living Land Animal
Species: Seychelles Giant Tortoise
Age: Over 192 years (Born circa 1832)
Location: St. Helena Island, South Atlantic Ocean
Jonathan is not just the oldest turtle; he is officially recognized as the oldest living land animal on Earth. Believed to have been born around 1832, Jonathan has lived for more than 192 years, making him older than the lightbulb, telephone, and even the Eiffel Tower.
Life Journey:
Jonathan was brought to the remote island of St. Helena in 1882 from the Seychelles. He lives on the grounds of the official residence of the island’s governor. Despite his age, Jonathan is still active, though he is blind and has lost his sense of smell. He enjoys the company of other tortoises and is taken care of by a team of caretakers who ensure he has a nutritious diet, including fruits and vegetables.
Why Is He Special?
- Guinness World Record holder for the oldest living land animal.
- He has seen 40+ governors, two world wars, and over 30 U.S. Presidents.
- A symbol of history and survival for the island and the world.
2. Tu’i Malila – The Tortoise Gifted by Captain Cook
Species: Radiated Tortoise
Age at Death: 188 years (1777–1965)
Location: Tonga (Pacific Islands)
Tu’i Malila is one of the most famous tortoises in history. According to records, she was given as a gift by Captain James Cook to the royal family of Tonga in 1777. She lived until 1965, dying at the age of 188, making her one of the oldest turtles ever recorded.
Life Journey:
Tu’i Malila spent her life in the care of the Tongan royal family. Her name means “King Malila,” and although she was female, the title reflected respect and royal honor. She was known for her docile nature and was considered a symbol of wisdom.
She became a national treasure in Tonga, and her death was marked by a national mourning ceremony. Her preserved body is still displayed in the Tongan capital, Nukuʻalofa.
Why Is She Special?
- Historical connection to Captain Cook, a prominent explorer.
- Lived through three centuries (18th to 20th century).
- Remained with one family lineage (Tongan Royal Family) throughout her life.
3. Adwaita – The Lone Warrior of the Indian Fort
Species: Aldabra Giant Tortoise
Estimated Age at Death: ~255 years (circa 1750–2006)
Location: Kolkata (India)
Adwaita, whose name means “the one and only” in Sanskrit, lived at the Alipore Zoological Gardens in Kolkata, India. He is believed to have lived for over 250 years, which would make him the oldest tortoise ever recorded in human history.
Life Journey:
Adwaita was said to have been one of four tortoises brought to India from the Seychelles by British colonial forces. He was gifted to Robert Clive, a key figure in establishing British rule in India. After Clive’s death, Adwaita was moved to the zoo in the 1870s, where he remained until his death in 2006.
He weighed over 250 kg (550 lbs) and lived a solitary but peaceful life in the zoo. Scientists conducted shell testing after his death and estimated his age to be around 255 years.
Why Is He Special?
- Possibly the oldest turtle ever.
- Witnessed the rise and fall of British colonial rule in India.
- A reminder of the deep history between India and the British Empire.
4. Harriet – The Galápagos Matriarch
Species: Galápagos Giant Tortoise
Age at Death: 175 years (circa 1830–2006)
Location: Australia Zoo, Queensland, Australia
Harriet was one of the world’s oldest turtles and a beloved resident of Australia Zoo, once owned by the late Steve Irwin (The Crocodile Hunter). There was a popular belief that she was collected by Charles Darwin during his voyage on the HMS Beagle in the 1830s.
Life Journey:
Harriet was taken from the Galápagos Islands and transported to England, then later to Australia in the mid-19th century. She lived most of her life in the Botanic Gardens of Brisbane and was later moved to the Australia Zoo, where she was pampered and loved by zookeepers and visitors.
Although the Darwin connection has been debated, her long life and pleasant demeanor made her a star in her own right.
Why Is She Special?
- Possibly linked to Charles Darwin’s voyage.
- Lived in Australia for over 100 years.
- Loved by Steve Irwin and the Australian public.
5. Alagba – Nigeria’s Sacred Tortoise
Species: African Spur-Thighed Tortoise (Sulcata Tortoise)
Claimed Age: ~344 years (circa 1675–2019)
Location: Ogbomosho, Nigeria
Alagba, whose name means “the elder” in Yoruba, was a legendary tortoise kept in the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosho in Nigeria. He was claimed to have lived for over 344 years, though this has not been scientifically confirmed. Still, Alagba holds immense cultural significance in Nigerian history.
Life Journey:
Alagba was considered a spiritual symbol and believed to have healing powers. He was treated with great respect by the palace staff and was part of traditional ceremonies. Pilgrims from around Nigeria and beyond came to see him and pay their respects.
He passed away in October 2019 and was mourned nationally. His life story is now part of Nigerian folklore, and efforts have been made to preserve his shell and legacy.
Why Is He Special?
- Deep cultural and spiritual relevance in Yoruba tradition.
- One of the oldest animals ever claimed to have lived.
- Became a national symbol of endurance and blessing.
What Makes Turtles Live So Long?
Turtles and tortoises are some of the longest-living animals in the world. But why do they live so long?
1. Slow Metabolism:
Their bodies operate at a much slower rate, which reduces wear and tear on their cells.
2. Protective Shells:
Their shells protect them from predators, which increases their chance of surviving for decades or even centuries.
3. Low-Stress Lifestyle:
Turtles live peaceful lives. They move slowly, eat slowly, and don’t get into many fights or dangerous situations.
4. Genetic Factors:
Some species, like the Galápagos or Aldabra tortoises, have special genes that protect their cells and repair DNA damage.
Final Thoughts
From Jonathan’s quiet life on St. Helena to Alagba’s spiritual journey in Nigeria, these ancient turtles have lived lives that spanned generations of humans, scientific revolutions, and historic events. They remind us that age is not just a number—it’s a story of survival, patience, and the beauty of nature’s endurance.
As we continue to learn from these amazing creatures, let’s also celebrate their role in culture, science, and history. Their shells carry more than just their bodies—they carry legacies.