Gramma the Galápagos Tortoise Dies at 141 – A Legacy of Endurance

Gramma, one of the oldest Galápagos tortoises in captivity and a beloved resident of the San Diego Zoo, passed away on 20 November at the estimated age of 141 years. Her life became a symbol of longevity, resilience, and global efforts in wildlife conservation.

Life and Journey to the San Diego Zoo

Gramma was born in the Galápagos Islands, a group of volcanic islands in the Pacific Ocean known for unique species and ecological significance. She was later brought to the United States and arrived at the San Diego Zoo from the Bronx Zoo sometime between 1928 and 1931.

She was part of the earliest group of Galápagos tortoises at the zoo and quickly became a favourite among visitors for her calm and gentle presence. Her large size and shy behaviour made her a standout among zoo animals.

A Witness to History

With a life spanning more than a century, Gramma lived through some of the most important moments in modern history, including

• Two World Wars
• The terms of 20 different US Presidents
• Major shifts in public awareness regarding conservation and animal rights

Families often shared stories of seeing her as children and later returning with their own children to visit her again. Zoo staff fondly referred to her as the Queen of the Zoo.

Health Challenges and Peaceful Passing

In her final years, Gramma suffered from age-related bone conditions that slowly affected her quality of life. After close monitoring and medical evaluation, zoo veterinarians decided to humanely euthanise her on 20 November.

Her passing prompted widespread tributes from the public, highlighting her role in raising awareness about tortoise conservation and the importance of protecting endangered species.

Exam-Oriented Key Facts

1. Gramma was a Galápagos tortoise estimated to be 141 years old at the time of her death.
2. She arrived at the San Diego Zoo between 1928 and 1931 from the Bronx Zoo.
3. Galápagos tortoises are known to live over 100 years, often longer in captivity.
4. The oldest recorded Galápagos tortoise, Harriet, lived to 175 years.
5. Gramma suffered from age-related bone conditions in her final years.
6. She was humanely euthanised after her health declined.
7. There are 15 known subspecies of Galápagos tortoises.
8. Several of these subspecies are critically endangered.
9. Over 10,000 juvenile tortoises have been released into the wild since 1965 through conservation programmes.
10. Gramma became a symbol of conservation efforts and a beloved zoo icon.

Conservation Status and Global Efforts

Galápagos tortoises remain a top priority in global conservation due to past exploitation and present-day habitat threats.

Thanks to captive breeding efforts, thousands of young tortoises have been reintroduced into the wild. Zoos in cities like Philadelphia and Miami have also reported successful hatchings in recent years.

Gramma’s life serves as a reminder of the importance of long-term dedication to wildlife preservation and the role of public education in protecting endangered species.