In brief
In an extraordinary event, two giant tortoises at the Philadelphia Zoo achieved parenthood at an age rarely seen in wildlife, adding a hopeful chapter to conservation efforts.
The Philadelphia Zoo is celebrating a historic event as a pair of giant tortoises, both approximately 100 years old, have become first-time parents. The zoo announced this week the successful hatching of four Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises, born to parents Abrazzo and Mommy. This remarkable occurrence marks a significant first in the zoo's 150-year history. Mommy, who arrived at the zoo in 1932, has gained recognition as the oldest known tortoise of her species to give birth for the first time.The Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise is critically endangered, with numbers dwindling in the wild and an estimate of fewer than 50 residing in US zoos. The hatchlings began emerging from their eggs on February 27, with others expected to follow in the coming weeks. Each hatchling weighs between 70 and 80 grams and is being nurtured in a behind-the-scenes area at the zoo's Reptile and Amphibian House, where they are reportedly thriving.The zoo is making preparations for the public debut of the hatchlings on April 23, coinciding with the 93rd anniversary of Mommy's arrival at the zoo. The births are part of a broader breeding initiative supported by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, focusing on the conservation of endangered species and promoting genetic diversity."This marks a major milestone for Philadelphia Zoo, and we are thrilled to share this joyous news with our community and beyond," stated Jo-Elle Mogerman, the zoo's president and CEO. "Anyone who has visited our zoo over the past 92 years may remember seeing Mommy." Abrazzo arrived from South Carolina's Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in 2020.Looking forward, the Philadelphia Zoo's vision for these hatchlings is optimistic, aiming for them to contribute to a sustainable and thriving population of Galapagos tortoises in the century to come.
