Goliath the Galapagos Tortoise Celebrates His 135th Birthday and First Father’s Day at Zoo Miami
Zoo Miami reached a monumental milestone this weekend as Goliath, the zoo’s oldest resident, celebrated his 135th birthday and his first Father’s Day. This 517-pound Galapagos tortoise not only marked his long life but also became a father for the very first time earlier this month, adding a new chapter to his incredible journey.
A New Chapter: Goliath Becomes a Father
Goliath’s first offspring emerged from a clutch of eight eggs laid on January 27, 2025. One of these eggs successfully hatched on June 4, marking a historic moment not only for Goliath but for Zoo Miami. This is the first time that a Galapagos tortoise has hatched at the zoo, making it a significant achievement in conservation efforts.
“Goliath is my hero, and I am sure he will soon be an inspiration to many others!” said Ron Magill, Zoo Miami’s spokesman. He went on to add, “He is living proof that where there is a will, there is a way and to never give up!”
Galapagos tortoises are endangered, with their numbers drastically reduced by human exploitation and invasive species introductions before the 20th century. Today, modern threats like climate change and habitat loss continue to impact their survival. Goliath’s successful hatching brings hope for the species’ future, especially considering their critical status in the wild.
Goliath’s Journey: From the Galapagos to Zoo Miami
Goliath was born between 1885 and 1890 on the island of Santa Cruz in the Galapagos Islands, located near the equator in the Pacific Ocean. He was brought to the Bronx Zoo in 1929 and later moved to Zoo Miami in 1981. Throughout his time at Zoo Miami, Goliath had mated with several females. However, this is the first time he has fathered a hatchling.
The mother of the hatchling, Sweet Pea, is an elderly tortoise. Experts estimate her age to be 85 to 100 years old. Despite their age, both Goliath and Sweet Pea are doing well in their public habitat at the zoo, while the hatchling is currently being cared for in a separate enclosure. In the wild, Galapagos tortoises do not raise their offspring, so the hatchling will be cared for by zoo staff.
A Symbol of Hope and Conservation
The birth of Goliath’s offspring is more than just a personal achievement. It’s a significant win for the Galapagos tortoise population and a step forward in conservation. With efforts like these, Zoo Miami is helping ensure that the legacy of these ancient creatures will continue for generations.
More…
- https://www.breakingnews.ie/world/galapagos-tortoise-celebrates-135th-birthday-and-first-fathers-day-at-us-zoo-1773371.html
- https://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/galapagos-tortoise-celebrates-135th-birthday-fathers-day-zoo-122861306
- https://www.wlrn.org/environment/2025-06-13/galapagos-tortoise-goliath-celebrates-his-135th-birthday-and-his-first-fathers-day
