Jonathan the tortoise became the center of attention during Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s three-day visit to Seychelles after the Indian leader met the world-famous giant tortoise and offered him fresh leaves. The meeting added a memorable moment to the Prime Minister’s official trip, which also marked an important milestone in diplomatic ties between India and Seychelles.
Prime Minister Modi attended Seychelles’ National Day celebrations as the chief guest during the visit. This year is especially significant because India and Seychelles are celebrating 50 years of diplomatic relations. Alongside official meetings and ceremonies, the visit also included an encounter with one of the most extraordinary animals on Earth-Jonathan, believed to be the world’s oldest living land animal.
Who Is Jonathan the Tortoise?
Jonathan is an Aldabra giant tortoise, a species known for its remarkable lifespan. Experts estimate that he was born around 1832, making him approximately 194 years old. Although there is no official birth certificate to confirm his exact age, historical records provide strong evidence of his extraordinary longevity.
When Jonathan was transported to the island of Saint Helena in 1882, he was already considered a fully grown adult. Based on his size at the time, conservationists estimate that he was at least 50 years old when he arrived. This timeline has been widely accepted by researchers and has helped establish his place in history.
His remarkable age has earned him recognition from Guinness World Records as the oldest living land animal and the oldest known tortoise in the world.
A Journey That Spans Nearly Two Centuries
Jonathan’s story stretches across almost 200 years of history. He was originally brought from the Seychelles to Saint Helena, a British Overseas Territory in the South Atlantic Ocean, as a gift to then-Governor Sir William Grey-Wilson.
Since arriving on the island, Jonathan has lived at Plantation House, the official residence of the Governor of Saint Helena. He shares his home with other giant tortoises, including Frederick, David and Emma, and remains one of the island’s most treasured residents.
Over the course of his life, Jonathan has witnessed dramatic changes around the world, from the reigns of British monarchs to major technological advances. He has lived through generations of political leaders and has become an enduring symbol of resilience and longevity.
Age Has Slowed Him, But He Continues to Thrive
Like any animal of advanced age, Jonathan has experienced health challenges. He has developed cataracts, leaving him with very limited eyesight, and his sense of smell is not as strong as it once was. Despite these age-related conditions, dedicated veterinary care has helped him maintain a good quality of life.
Veterinarian Dr. Joe Hollins, who has overseen Jonathan’s care for years, has played an important role in monitoring his health and adapting his diet as his needs have changed.
Today, Jonathan enjoys a carefully managed menu that includes grass along with fresh fruits and vegetables such as apples, pears, bananas, lettuce, cabbage, carrots and cucumbers. This balanced diet has helped him remain active despite his age.
A Gentle Giant Loved by Visitors
Jonathan weighs between 150 and 200 kilograms and belongs to a species whose members typically live around 150 years. His lifespan has exceeded even the expectations for Aldabra giant tortoises, making him a truly exceptional example of the species.
Although his vision is limited, he can still respond to sounds and often moves toward the voices of visitors who come to see him. His calm nature and remarkable history have made him one of Saint Helena’s biggest tourist attractions.
Caretakers also recall amusing moments when Jonathan has wandered onto nearby sports grounds, occasionally sitting on cricket or tennis balls and briefly interrupting games—a charming reminder that he continues to explore his surroundings in his own way.
A Living Piece of History
Jonathan’s life has overlapped with some of history’s most significant events. He has lived through the tenure of more than 30 governors on Saint Helena and has been photographed with notable members of the British royal family, including the future King Edward VIII and a young Queen Elizabeth II.
His popularity extends beyond the island. In 2019, Jonathan appeared on Saint Helena postage stamps and a five-pence coin, reflecting his status as one of the territory’s most recognizable ambassadors.
Earlier in 2026, false reports claiming Jonathan had died circulated on social media. Authorities on Saint Helena quickly dismissed the rumors by releasing updated photographs and confirming that the giant tortoise remained healthy and active.
More recently, Guinness World Records honored Jonathan with its Icon Award, recognizing his global significance and his extraordinary place in natural history.
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A Remarkable Symbol of Longevity
Jonathan the tortoise continues to spend his days basking in the sunshine, grazing peacefully and greeting visitors from around the world. His remarkable lifespan highlights the benefits of long-term conservation, expert veterinary care and a stable natural environment.
As Prime Minister Modi’s visit brought renewed international attention to Jonathan, the legendary tortoise once again reminded the world that patience, resilience and proper care can create an extraordinary legacy that spans generations.
