Jonathan, the world’s oldest living land animal, has reached the remarkable age of 194, further cementing his place in history as one of the most extraordinary creatures ever recorded.
According to Guinness World Records, Jonathan is a giant tortoise originally from the Seychelles archipelago in the Indian Ocean, located off the eastern coast of Africa.
Although native to Seychelles, he now lives on the island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean, where he has become a beloved local resident.
Records showed that when Jonathan was brought from Seychelles to Saint Helena in 1882, he was already a fully grown adult tortoise estimated to be at least 50 years old.
Based on that assessment, experts believed he was born no later than 1832, making him 194 years old today.
Saint Helena Governor Nigel Phillips told Guinness World Records that Jonathan is one of the island’s most cherished residents.
Over the decades, he has met members of royalty, appeared in countless wedding photographs, and delighted generations of visitors from around the world.
Recognizing his extraordinary legacy, Guinness World Records has officially named Jonathan an “Icon.”
The organization said the title is reserved for a select group of record holders whose achievements extend beyond their own fields and serve as a source of inspiration for people worldwide.
Jonathan’s incredible lifespan continues to fascinate scientists, residents, and tourists alike, making him a living symbol of endurance, resilience, and the wonders of the natural world.