Jonathan Tortoise: Where is tortoise Jonathan, world’s oldest living land animal? How to go and see him?
Global curiosity about Jonathan, the world’s oldest known land animal, has emerged once again following a wave of misleading online claims that triggered confusion about his condition and whereabouts. The centuries-old tortoise that lives on Saint Helena has become a symbol of extraordinary longevity and has recently been the subject of widespread misinformation that has spread rapidly across social media platforms.
Viral confusion over false death reports
Inappropriate news about the demise of 194-year-old Jonathan, the world’s oldest known land animal, spread widely online, creating confusion among people. These stemmed from a post shared on X by a fake account claiming to be Jonathan’s vet. In the message attributed to “Joe Hollins”, the world’s oldest turtle, Jonathan, was born in St. It was stated that it was deeply saddening that it was revealed that he died peacefully in Helena. It was also noted that it had been an honor to take care of him over the years, including hand-feeding him bananas, seeing him relax in the sun, and experiencing his calm demeanor.
The post quickly gained traction, garnering millions of views and emotional reactions from users. One user commented:
“I’m very sorry to hear this,” the statement said. “193 years is far beyond a lifetime. He silently watched generations come and go while he lived his quiet, noble life on that island.”
How was the fraud discovered?
However, a report prepared by Guard He stated that the account that spread the details was working from Brazil. The original vet announced that Jonathan the turtle survived.
The veterinarian explained that the person using his identity was trying to collect cryptocurrency donations via X, and that this incident was not a joke but a fraud. The statement made later stated the following:
“It was a hoax,” says Anne Dillon, the island’s communications officer. “I don’t have all those details, I can just assure you that he is very much alive.” Allegedly, Joe Hollins also confirmed that he did not have an X account and explained this as intentional deception.
“Scam solicits crypto donations,” he wrote. “This is a scam.”
Live record of history
Jonathan is a giant Seychelles tortoise believed to be the oldest known land creature still alive. It has resided on the Governor’s Residence compound on Saint Helena since 1882, after being brought to the island as a gift.
Guinness World Records recognizes Jonathan as both the oldest living land animal and the oldest turtle ever recorded. He was believed to be almost 50 years old when he arrived on Saint Helena in 1882. Despite his age, reports from the island confirm that Jonathan continues to hang around the governor’s residence, living a slow, steady life under careful observation and care.
Where is Jonathan and how can I see him?
Jonathan lives on Saint Helena, a remote island in the South Atlantic Ocean known for its isolation and historical significance. It is usually located on the grounds of the Governor’s Residence, where it is cared for by local officials.
Visitors to Saint Helena can sometimes watch it at designated outdoor locations, depending on local access rules and its movement at the time. The island is primarily accessible via limited flight connections and sea routes, making visits relatively rare but possible for determined travellers.
FAQ:
Q1. Who is Jonathan?
Jonathan is the world’s oldest known living land animal. It is a giant Seychelles tortoise that lives on Saint Helena.
Q2. How old is Jonathan?
Jonathan is believed to be 194 years old. His age is estimated based on historical records.
