The Planet's Longest-Living Resident: 194-Year-Old Tortoise Receives Prestigious Global ICON Award

Jonathan, a 194-year-old male tortoise, has been honored with the prestigious ICON Award by Guinness World Records. Born around 1832, Jonathan is officially recognized as the oldest living land animal on Earth.

The Seychelles giant tortoise, who currently resides on the island of Saint Helena (a remote territory in the South Atlantic Ocean), also holds the official title of the oldest tortoise ever recorded in human history.

This reptile is a true local legend. Jonathan has lived at Plantation House—the official residence of the Governor of Saint Helena—since way back in 1882, when he arrived at the already mature age of 50.

The extraordinary animal was brought from his homeland of the Seychelles in the Indian Ocean as a gift for the newly appointed governor. Since then, Jonathan has outlasted a staggering 31 governors during his tenure!

To celebrate Jonathan’s incredible milestone, Governor Phillips hosted an official press conference. Notably, it was Governor Phillips who, in 2022, officially designated Jonathan's official birthdate as December 4, 1832.

Although his advanced age has cost him his sight and sense of smell, this elderly resident remains completely healthy. His condition is so remarkably stable that scientists are currently analyzing Jonathan's DNA in an effort to unlock his genetic secrets to longevity.