Estimated Age: Born circa 1832
Species: Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa)
Residence: Plantation House, St. Helena
Current Age: ~193 years (as of 2025)
Official Birthday: December 4, 1832
Status: Guinness World Record holder for oldest living land animal

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A Walk Through History

Jonathan’s extraordinary journey began in the early 1830s, making him older than the lightbulb, the telephone, and even the first photograph. Hatched in the Seychelles, this remarkable tortoise was brought to the island of St. Helena in 1882, already fully grown and estimated to be at least 50 years old. That places his birth around 1832, though some experts suspect he could be even older.

Over the course of his nearly two centuries of life, Jonathan has lived through the reigns of eight British monarchs and 40 U.S. presidents. On St. Helena, he has seen 31 governors come and go, remaining a steady presence as history unfolded around him.

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Life at Plantation House

Today, Jonathan resides on the lush grounds of Plantation House, the official residence of the Governor of St. Helena. There, he lives alongside other giant tortoises, including Frederik, his longtime companion since 1991. Despite his age, Jonathan is still surprisingly active, often seen mingling with his fellow tortoises and even engaging in courtship behavior — proof that his spirit remains youthful.

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Health and Care

At nearly 200 years old, Jonathan has naturally faced age-related health challenges. He is blind due to cataracts and has lost his sense of smell, but he retains excellent hearing. To ensure his well-being, caretakers hand-feed him a carefully balanced diet rich in fresh vegetables.

Veterinarian Joe Hollins, who has overseen Jonathan’s care since 2009, credits the tortoise’s extraordinary longevity to a combination of genetics, a stable environment, and attentive daily care. Hollins describes Jonathan as “a grand old gentleman” who continues to inspire admiration with his resilience.

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Cultural Significance

Jonathan is more than just an animal — he is a cultural icon for St. Helena. His image appears on the island’s five-pence coin and has been featured on commemorative stamps and certificates. In 2022, officials organized a three-day celebration for his 190th birthday, complete with a cake made of his favorite foods.

Beloved by both locals and tourists, Jonathan symbolizes endurance and the timeless beauty of nature. Visitors from around the world travel to St. Helena for the chance to glimpse this living legend.

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A Living Legacy

Photographs of Jonathan date back to 1886, creating one of the longest visual records of any living creature. These images chart his remarkable journey through time and provide a tangible connection to nearly two centuries of global history.

Jonathan’s life is a testament to resilience, longevity, and the mysteries of the natural world. As he continues to thrive in his sanctuary at Plantation House, he remains an enduring reminder of nature’s capacity for survival and adaptation.

For those fortunate enough to visit St. Helena, Jonathan offers a rare opportunity: to stand before a creature that has witnessed almost two hundred years of human history — a true living legend.