Gramma the Galápagos Tortoise Passes Away at 141
Gramma, a beloved Galápagos tortoise at the San Diego Zoo, has died at the remarkable age of 141, having lived through an era marked by significant historical events and transformations. Her passing highlights the extraordinary lifespan of these creatures and their role in conservation efforts.
Key Points / What’s New
- Gramma was celebrated for her incredible lifespan, having been thought to be born around 1884.
- The tortoise was brought to the San Diego Zoo from the Bronx Zoo in the late 1920s.
- Experts suggest that Gramma’s longevity results from her slow metabolism and unique biological processes.
Main Story Details
A Life Spanning Centuries
Notably, Gramma’s estimated birth year of 1884 coincides with numerous historical milestones, including the finalization of the Washington Monument and the advent of the Oxford English Dictionary. Throughout her life, she witnessed the rise and fall of empires, two world wars, and the tenures of over 20 U.S. presidents.
Support in Her Final Days
According to a statement from the San Diego Zoo, Gramma was surrounded by her care team when they made the compassionate decision to say goodbye. “She was being expertly supported for ongoing conditions related to her age,” the statement read. Her presence had become a cherished part of the zoo’s identity, where she was affectionately known as “the Queen of the Zoo.”
The Science Behind Longevity
Experts attribute Gramma’s remarkable lifespan to biological traits common among Galápagos tortoises. Steven Austad, a biology professor at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, noted that their slow life processes could contribute to their extended lifetimes. He likened their natural living strategy to that of “Prius drivers,” which helps reduce wear and tear on their bodies.
Community Impact and Legacy
Described as a “sweet and shy tortoise,” Gramma impacted countless visitors, serving as an ambassador for reptile conservation worldwide. Her story resonates with many, inspiring ongoing conservation efforts and increasing awareness about the fragile ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands.
Background
Gramma arrived at the San Diego Zoo from the Bronx Zoo circa 1928 after being taken from her native Galápagos Islands. Galápagos tortoises are believed to be capable of surviving long ocean voyages, having originated from the South American mainland millions of years ago. Currently, there are 15 subspecies of these tortoises, three of which have gone extinct.
