A rare birth for a tortoise 🐢: First mother at 100 years old!

A giant Galapagos tortoise, nearly 100 years old, gave birth to four young at the Philadelphia Zoo, making history as the oldest mother of this critically endangered species.

This exceptional event marks the first successful birth of a Galapagos tortoise in the zoo's 150-year history.

"Mami," a female tortoise who arrived at the zoo in 1932, suddenly became a mother in her old age after successfully mating with "Abrazo," another reptile veteran. The four youngsters, each weighing no more than a chicken egg (70-80 grams), represent a valuable genetic treasure for conservation programs for this rare species.

Meanwhile, Jo-El Mogerman, the zoo's CEO, stated, "This is not just an ordinary birth. It's a scientific achievement and a dream come true after decades of waiting." She noted that "Mammy" is considered one of the last tortoises with unique genetic value in the world.

A team of doctors and experts is working around the clock to care for the babies in a special incubator behind the scenes, where their development is closely monitored. These babies are scheduled to be shown to the public for the first time on April 23, amid a celebration that includes a naming contest.

It's worth noting that Galapagos giant tortoises are facing extinction due to poaching and habitat destruction, making each new birth a global event.

The last successful hatching occurred five years ago at another American zoo, making this achievement doubly significant.

Source: The Post - Published on 6-4-2025 https://ar.rt.com/zmbt