Giant Tortoises at Philadelphia Zoo Welcome First Hatchlings After Century-Long Wait

In a remarkable milestone, Philadelphia Zoo has celebrated the birth of four hatchlings from a pair of critically endangered giant tortoises, marking a significant achievement in conservation efforts.

In an extraordinary milestone for the Philadelphia Zoo, a pair of Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises, Abrazzo and Mommy, have welcomed their first hatchlings after approximately 100 years of life. This unprecedented event in the zoo's 150-plus-year history was announced this week, with excitement over the arrival of four little tortoises. Notably, Mommy, who has lived at the zoo since 1932, is recognized as the oldest first-time mother of her species on record.

The new hatchlings, weighing between 70 and 80 grams each, made their debut with the first egg hatching on February 27. The animal care team at the zoo is keeping a close watch on additional eggs that are yet to hatch. For now, the quartet is being cared for in the Reptile and Amphibian House, where they are reported to be eating well and growing healthily. A special public unveiling is planned for April 23, which will coincide with Mommy's 93rd anniversary at the zoo.

As part of the crucial breeding program of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, these hatchlings are significant for the survival and genetic diversity of their critically endangered species. The zoo's president and CEO, Jo-Elle Mogerman, expressed her excitement, emphasizing the importance of sharing this joyous news with the community and beyond.

With fewer than 50 Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises residing in U.S. zoos, this vibrant addition is a hope for future generations. "Our vision is for these hatchlings to contribute to a flourishing population of Galapagos tortoises on a healthy planet a century from now," she remarked. Abrazzo, who arrived from Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in South Carolina in 2020, is now integral to fostering a new generation of these remarkable creatures.