Archive · 23 May 2025
World's Oldest Turtles: Centuries-Spanning Lifespans
Some turtles can live for a very long time, even over a hundred years!
This is because they live slowly, have strong bodies, and enjoy a peaceful life.
One turtle named Alagba lived in a palace in Nigeria for many years.
Adwaita was another old turtle, maybe around 255 years old, but we are not sure.
Jonathan is the oldest living turtle and lives on an island.
Tu'i Malila was gifted to a royal family and lived to be almost 190 years old.
These turtles are really special because of how long they live!
Turtles, especially certain land tortoises and sea turtles, can live for over a century.
Alagba, an African spur-thighed tortoise, lived at a Nigerian palace for centuries, though her exact age is debated.
Adwaita, an Aldabra giant tortoise, reportedly lived to be around 255 years old, but documentation is lacking.
Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise, is the oldest living land animal, estimated to be over 190 years old.
Tu’i Malila, a radiated tortoise, lived 189 years and was gifted to Tonga's royal family.
- Who
- Alagba, Adwaita, Jonathan, Tu’i Malila and Harriet the tortoises.
- What
- A look at the longest living turtles in the world
- When
- Historical records and estimates; e.g., Jonathan is over 190 years old.
- Where
- Ogbomoso (Nigeria), Alipore Zoo (Kolkata, India), Saint Helena Island
- Why
- Because they live slowly, have strong bodies, and enjoy a peaceful life.
- Average turtle lifespan
- Up to 80 years
- Oldest turtle mentioned
- Alagba, African spur-thighed tortoise
- Location of Adwaita
- Alipore Zoo, Kolkata, India
- Jonathan's species
- Seychelles giant tortoise
- Tu’i Malila's age at death
- 189 years
- Approximate birth year of Jonathan
- 1832