Gramma, the beloved Galapagos tortoise, was a cherished figure at the San Diego Zoo, living to an impressive age of around 141 years.
After nearly a century of delighting guests, the zoo shared on social media this week that she died November 20.
As she aged, Gramma developed a bone condition that required close monitoring by the zoo’s wildlife care experts. Unfortunately, as the disease progressed, it became necessary to euthanize her, as reported by CBS News.
Described by zoo staff as both ‘sweet’ and ‘shy,’ Gramma had a gentle disposition that endeared her to many.
According to a statement given to the Daily Mail, the zoo highlighted Gramma’s impact: “She quietly touched the lives of countless people over nearly a century in San Diego as an incredible ambassador for reptile conservation worldwide.”
The zoo expressed gratitude for having the opportunity to care for such a remarkable creature.
Gramma’s journey began when she was brought from the Galapagos Islands to the Bronx Zoo, becoming part of its pioneering group of Galapagos tortoises.
Records suggest she made the journey from New York to San Diego in either 1928 or 1931.
Gramma the Galapagos tortoise was the oldest resident at the San Diego Zoo when she died at roughly 141 years old
The San Diego Zoo announced that the beloved tortoise had been euthanized following struggles with a bone condition
There, she became part of what would eventually be one of largest collections of rare and endangered animals in the world.
The ‘Queen of the Zoo’ survived more than 20 US presidents and both World Wars. She saw millions of guests over the years, many of whom she left a profound impact on.
Gramma even lived through the San Diego zoo’s creation, already in her thirties by the time it was founded.
She became an important part of the zoo’s history.
Several past visitors took to the comment section of the zoo’s announcement to share special memories of the beloved reptile.
‘As a child during the 60’s, I actually rode on her shell in the children’s zoo-when such behavior was acceptable and promoted by SD Zoo. I remember crying when the “ride” was over,’ one commenter shared.
’20 or so years ago my friend and I were the only ones watching the tortoises and a keeper came and asked if we wanted to feed Gramma some romaine lettuce,’ another added.
‘She was such a gentle soul and I’m so happy I got to spend that small quiet but crunchy moment with her. She had an extraordinary life and will be missed!’
Gramma was beloved by zoo-goers and employees alike
‘We got to meet Gramma and feed her during my birthday VIP tour in January. Oh my heart just breaks!’ a third added.
Galapagos tortoises have an average lifespan of more than 100 years and they weigh more than 550 pounds.
The endangered species contains 15 subspecies, three of which are extinct.
A conscious effort by zoos and conservatories have helped to repopulate tortoises on the Galapagos Islands since 1965, per the Galapagos Conservatory.
As a result of decades of captive rearing, thousands of tortoises have been released back onto their native islands.
While Gramma’s age was impressive, Galapagos tortoises have lived even longer.
The Australia Zoo housed the oldest on record, Harriet, who lived to 175.
Despite her long life, Gramma was a simple tortoise.
She loved eating fruit and lettuce, playing in puddles, and basking in the sun
For almost a century, zoo-goers watched her enjoy sunshine, puddles, lettuce, and cactus fruit.
The zoo encouraged people to enjoy some of Gramma’s favorite things to honor her memory.
‘We invite you to enjoy a generous, fruit-filled salad, a special tribute for a very special tortoise,’ they wrote.
