Philadelphia: Two nearly 100-year-old Galapagos tortoises have become first-time parents at Philadelphia Zoo. This rare birth marks a milestone. The zoo proudly announced the arrival of four healthy hatchlings on Friday. It is the first time Galapagos tortoises have been born at the zoo. These tortoises are critically endangered and rarely breed in captivity.
Parent Details
The parents are Mommy and Abrazzo, the oldest animals at the zoo. Mommy arrived in 1932 and has lived there since. Zoo officials say anyone visiting in the last 92 years likely saw her. These hatchlings are the first for both parents. Abrazzo and Mommy have been together for years, but this is their first success.
Hatchling Progress
The baby tortoises currently live in the Reptile and Amphibian House. Zoo staff are keeping them out of public view for now. They are “eating and growing appropriately,” according to the zoo’s statement. Each baby weighs around 70 to 80 grams—similar to a chicken egg. The first egg hatched on February 27.
Monitoring Continues
Zoo staff are still watching more eggs that might hatch soon. The animal care team is providing round-the-clock monitoring. These tortoises belong to the Western Santa Cruz species. The species is listed under the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ survival plan. Mommy is considered highly genetically valuable.
Global Context
The last time Galapagos tortoises hatched at an AZA-accredited zoo was in 2019. That event happened at Riverbanks Zoo in South Carolina. Other zoos like San Diego, Zoo Miami, and Honolulu also have breeding pairs. However, such successful births remain extremely rare and significant.
Zoo’s Pride
Philadelphia Zoo’s president Jo-Elle Mogerman shared her excitement in a statement. She called the event a “significant milestone.” The zoo has waited over 150 years for this achievement. Mogerman said the entire city and world can celebrate the news. The tortoises symbolize hope for endangered species.
Future Vision
Mogerman hopes the hatchlings will live long lives. She envisions them thriving on a healthy planet in the next century. These tortoises can live well over 100 years. The zoo aims to build a strong, sustainable population for the future. Public education and conservation are also major goals.
Mommy’s Legacy
Mommy’s story has now become even more special. As the oldest first-time mom of her species, she’s made history. She plays a vital role in conservation efforts. Her genetic value is critical to future generations. The zoo plans to include her story in educational programs.
Public Debut
The zoo will present the hatchlings to the public on April 23. Visitors will get their first look at these tiny tortoises. A special naming contest will be launched at the event. The zoo encourages visitors to participate in naming history. These baby tortoises will soon be stars.
Hope Ahead
This successful birth gives hope to conservationists worldwide. It proves that even in captivity, breeding endangered species is possible. The zoo’s long-term care and planning paid off. The Philadelphia Zoo joins a small group of institutions making breeding breakthroughs. A rare moment for science and animal care.
