Jonathan the tortoise of Saint Helena: the world's oldest terrestrial animal

Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise residing on the island of Saint Helena, has officially been recognized by Guinness World Records as the world's oldest living land animal. Now 194 years old, Jonathan's remarkable longevity is of significant interest to the international scientific community, offering crucial insights into the biology of cellular aging.

Born around 1832, Jonathan belongs to the species Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa. He arrived on Saint Helena in 1882, already an adult estimated to be at least 50 years old, as a gift to the governor of the time. He has lived on the island for over 140 years, in the same territory where Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte died in exile in 1821.

Jonathan currently resides in the gardens of Plantation House, the official residence of the governor of Saint Helena, accompanied by three other tortoises. Despite losing his sense of smell and sight due to his advanced age, he maintains a good appetite and intact hearing. His daily diet consists of fresh grass and carrots, and he is described by the local government as a beloved resident.

Guinness World Records bestowed the official "Icon" distinction upon Jonathan on June 17, 2026. This exclusive category honors figures with world records of exceptional international impact, placing Jonathan in the company of global celebrities like the musical group Blackpink and actor John Cena.

The scientific explanation for the longevity of giant tortoises lies in their extremely slow metabolism, which slows cellular aging. Combined with a lack of natural predators and a strict vegetarian diet, this species can double the lifespan of other vertebrates. Jonathan's stable health is continuously monitored in his habitat, as global interest in his biological evolution continues to grow.