Jonathan lives at the governor’s residence on the island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean. He was brought to Saint Helena in 1882 and has since become a beloved figure there.
Veterinarian Joe Hollins, who has cared for Jonathan and three other tortoises on Saint Helena since 2009, celebrates Jonathan’s birthday each year on New Year’s Day.Although the governor of Saint Helena, Nigel Phillips, has unofficially assigned Jonathan a hatch date of December 4, 1832, Hollins prefers to celebrate on New Year’s Day, honoring Jonathan’s age rather than his exact birthdate. On his birthday, Jonathan typically spends his day slowly roaming in search of fresh clover and taking an afternoon nap, according to Hollins.
Jonathan’s diet and routine
Jonathan’s diet consists of various vegetation, including grasses, leaves, and fruits, which are essential for his health and longevity. His caretakers ensure he receives a balanced diet.
Weighing approximately 200 kg and measuring about 1.2 meters in length, Jonathan remains in relatively good health despite his age. He spends his days basking in the sun, eating grass and leaves, and interacting with visitors. His remarkable longevity has made him a popular tourist attraction.
Though Jonathan is blind and lacks a sense of smell, he still has excellent hearing.
‘He could actually be older’
According to Hollins, Jonathan’s age could be even greater than recorded.
Historical records show Jonathan grazing the governor’s mansion grounds between 1882 and 1886. A letter mentions that he was fully grown when he arrived from the Seychelles Islands in 1882, meaning he was at least 50 years old at that time. Hollins highlights Jonathan’s historical significance, noting that he was around 50 years old when the incandescent lightbulb was invented. During his lifetime, Jonathan has seen 31 governors come and go.
Jonathan has exceeded the average life expectancy of 150 years for a land tortoise. As he has entered his 92nd year, Hollins remains hopeful that Jonathan will continue to greet visitors well into his third century.
Hollins shares a deep affection for Jonathan, calling it a privilege to care for him. When Hollins first arrived, Jonathan had health issues, including cataracts and a deteriorating beak. Hollins introduced fresh fruits and vegetables into Jonathan’s diet, which significantly improved his health.
A popular tourist attraction
Jonathan has become a major attraction on Saint Helena, drawing around 1,500 tourists annually. Due to high visitor interest, a tortoise corridor was introduced to allow tourists to view Jonathan without disturbing him.
“He loves the chatter and interaction,” said Hollins, as quoted by The Washington Post, noting that Jonathan also enjoys the sounds from a nearby tennis court.
“Whatever happens, I think we can be satisfied that we’ve done our best for him,” Hollins said, expressing his hope to be present for Jonathan’s 200th birthday celebration.