Where is tortoise Jonathan, world's oldest living land animal? How to go and see him?

The global curiosity surrounding Jonathan, the world’s oldest known living land animal, has emerged once again following a wave of misleading online claims triggered confusion regarding his condition and whereabouts. The centuries-old tortoise, who resides on Saint Helena, has become a symbol of extraordinary longevity and recently, the subject of widespread misinformation that rapidly spread across social media platforms.

Viral confusion over false death reports

Inappropriate reports regarding the passing of 194 years old Jonathan, the world's oldest known land animal, spread widely online, wrestling in confusion among people. These originated from a post shared on X by a fake account claiming to be Jonathan's veterinarian. The message, attributed to "Joe Hollins," cited that it was deeply saddening to reveal that Jonathan, the world's oldest tortoise, had died peacefully in St. Helena. It also stated that it had been an honour to care for him over the years, which includes hand-feeding him bananas, seeing him relax in the sun, and experiencing his calm demeanour.


The post quickly gained traction, accumulating millions of views and emotional responses from users. One user commented:
"I am so sorry to hear this," it cited. "193 years is beyond a lifetime. He quietly watched generations come and go while just living his calm, gentile life on that island."

How the hoax was exposed

However, a report by The Guardian cited that the account spreading the details was functioning from Brazil. The original veterinarian explained that Jonathan the tortoise remains alive.

The veterinarian clarified that the individual using his identity was attempting to gather cryptocurrency donations on X, and this incident was not a joke but a scam. Later clarification stated:
"It was a hoax," cites Anne Dillon, head of communications on the island. "I don’t have all those details, I can just assure you that he is very much alive."

Joe Hollins also allegedly confirmed he does not even have an X account and explained the instance as a deliberate deception.
"The hoaxer is asking for crypto donations," he wrote. "It's a con."

A living record of history

Jonathan is a Seychelles giant tortoise believed to be the oldest known terrestrial creature still alive. He has resided within 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 tortoise ever recorded. He was believed to be almost 50 years old when he arrived in Saint Helena in 1882. Despite his age, reports from the island confirm that Jonathan remains to circulate the grounds of the governor’s residence, living a slow, steady life under careful observation and care.

Where is Jonathan and how to see him?

Jonathan lives on Saint Helena, a remote island in the South Atlantic Ocean well recognized for its isolation and historical importance. He is generally found within the grounds of the Governor’s Residence, where he is cared for by local officials.

Visitors to Saint Helena can sometimes watch him in designated outdoor places, depending on local access guidelines and his movement at the time. The island is accessible primarily by restricted flight connections and sea routes, making visits relatively uncommon but possible for determined travelers.

FAQs:

Q1. Who is Jonathan?
Jonathan is the world’s oldest known living land animal. He is a Seychelles giant tortoise living in Saint Helena.

Q2. How old is Jonathan?
Jonathan is believed to be around 194 years old. His age is estimated based on historical records.