Archive · 25 Nov 2025

Gramma, Oldest California Zoo Tortoise, Dies at 141

Gramma, Oldest California Zoo Tortoise, Dies at 141

Gramma was a very old Galápagos tortoise who lived at the San Diego Zoo.

She was about 141 years old when she died.

She came to the zoo from the Bronx Zoo a long time ago, either in 1928 or 1931.

Gramma was very special to the zoo and its visitors.

She lived through many important events, like two World Wars and the terms of 20 US presidents.

She was known for her sweet and shy personality.

Sadly, she had to be put to sleep because she was having health problems from being so old.

Many people loved visiting Gramma and shared their memories of her on social media.

Galápagos tortoises can live a very long time, and Gramma was one of the oldest.

There are efforts to protect these tortoises because some of their kinds are in danger of disappearing.

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