The San Diego Zoo is in mourning following the death of one of its most iconic and longest-serving residents, a Galapagos tortoise named Gramma, who was approximately 141 years old.
The zoo announced on social media that the beloved reptile was euthanised on November 20 after wildlife care specialists determined that a bone condition, exacerbated by her immense age, had become too much for her to bear.
A Century of Quiet Influence
Gramma was described by zoo officials as a 'sweet' and 'shy' creature who left an indelible mark on countless visitors over her near-century at the zoo. She quietly touched the lives of countless people over nearly a century in San Diego as an incredible ambassador for reptile conservation worldwide, a zoo representative told the Daily Mail. It was a privilege to care for such a remarkable tortoise.
Her journey to California was a long one. Originally from the Galapagos Islands, she was first brought to the Bronx Zoo as part of its inaugural group of Galapagos tortoises. Historical records indicate she was transferred from New York to the San Diego Zoo in either 1928 or 1931.
The Queen of the Zoo
At the time of her death, Gramma was the zoo's oldest resident, a true 'Queen of the Zoo'. Her incredible lifespan meant she lived through more than 20 US presidents and both World Wars. She was even in her thirties by the time the San Diego Zoo itself was founded, becoming a living part of its history.
Past visitors flooded the zoo's social media with fond memories. One person recalled, As a child during the 60’s, I actually rode on her shell in the children’s zoo... I remember crying when the 'ride' was over. Another shared a touching moment: 20 or so years ago my friend and I were the only ones watching the tortoises and a keeper came and asked if we wanted to feed Gramma some romaine lettuce. She was such a gentle soul.
Legacy of a Conservation Icon
While Gramma's age was remarkable, the Galapagos tortoise species is known for its longevity, with an average lifespan of over 100 years. These creatures, which can weigh more than 550 pounds, are an endangered species.
Since 1965, a concerted effort by zoos and conservatories, including the Galapagos Conservatory, has helped repopulate the islands. Decades of captive rearing have resulted in thousands of tortoises being released back into their native habitat.
Though Gramma lived a long life, the record for the oldest Galapagos tortoise is held by Harriet, who lived to 175 at the Australia Zoo.
In her memory, the zoo is encouraging the public to partake in some of Gramma's simple joys. We invite you to enjoy a generous, fruit-filled salad, a special tribute for a very special tortoise, they wrote. Her favourite activities included playing in puddles, basking in the sun, and eating lettuce and cactus fruit—a gentle legacy for a gentle giant.
