Historic Hatchlings: 100-Year-Old Galapagos Tortoises Become First-Time Parents at Philadelphia Zoo

In a heartwarming milestone for wildlife conservation, the Philadelphia Zoo has announced the arrival of four critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise hatchlings — born to a centenarian pair, Abrazzo and Mommy. The births mark the first time in the zoo’s 150+ year history that this species has successfully reproduced.

The zoo shared its excitement this week, calling the event “overjoying” and “a significant milestone” for the institution and the global conservation community. Mommy, who arrived at the zoo in 1932, has now become the oldest known first-time mother of her species at nearly 100 years old.

Abrazzo, the male tortoise, joined the zoo family in 2020 from the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in South Carolina. Their pairing was part of a carefully managed breeding program under the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), focused on preserving endangered species and maintaining genetic diversity.

The first egg hatched on February 27, with the others following shortly after. Weighing between 70 and 80 grams, the four hatchlings are being closely monitored by the zoo’s animal care team behind the scenes at the Reptile and Amphibian House. They are reportedly healthy, eating well, and growing as expected.

Visitors will have their first chance to see the hatchlings on public display on Wednesday, April 23 — a date that also marks the 93rd anniversary of Mommy's arrival at the zoo.

“There are fewer than 50 Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises in U.S. zoos, and their numbers in the wild remain critically low,” said Jo-Elle Mogerman, president and CEO of Philadelphia Zoo. “This is a testament to the dedication of our animal care teams and our vision that these hatchlings will one day contribute to a thriving population on a healthy planet — 100 years from now.”

This rare birth offers renewed hope for one of the world’s most endangered tortoise populations and highlights the vital role that modern zoos play in species preservation.