Philadelphia Zoo’s oldest animals welcome new arrivals, increasing the number of young animals in the facility.

The Philadelphia Zoo has recently celebrated a significant milestone in its ongoing conservation efforts with the birth of three male hatchlings from its critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise pair, Mommy and Abrazzo. This announcement marks a momentous occasion as Mommy, estimated to be around 100 years old, is believed to be the oldest first-time mother of her species. A resident of the zoo since 1932, she exemplifies the dedication of the institution towards wildlife preservation.

The new hatchlings are currently growing behind the scenes in the zoo’s Reptile and Amphibian House. Although they have yet to be named, their existence increases the tortoise family count at the zoo to nine. Earlier this year, the zoo welcomed four female hatchlings named after characters from the iconic television show, “The Golden Girls”—Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia. The zoo’s initiatives are not only vital for conservation but also serve as a source of education and inspiration for visitors.

Rachel Metz, the zoo’s vice president of animal well-being, expressed her enthusiasm about the happy event, emphasizing the significance of the hatchlings in the context of the zoo’s conservation challenges. This success story shines a light on the ongoing efforts to protect and breed endangered species, particularly the Galapagos tortoise, whose population has dramatically dwindled from an estimated 250,000 to about 17,000 in contemporary times, largely due to habitat loss and human activity.

Furthermore, the possibility of additional hatchlings is on the horizon, as nine eggs laid by Mommy earlier this year are currently being incubated and showing signs of development. Experts anticipate these eggs may begin hatching in the near future, further expanding this tortoise family. The young tortoises will remain at the Philadelphia Zoo for at least the next five years, giving local visitors ample opportunity to observe them.

Galapagos tortoises are notable for their remarkable life expectancy, which can reach up to 175 years. Thus, both Mommy and Abrazzo still have considerable time ahead to potentially welcome more offspring into their lineage. Abrazzo, who joined the Philadelphia Zoo in 2020, is not new to fatherhood; he previously fathered five hatchlings in a prior breeding program, reflecting his ongoing contribution to the species.

In addition to Mommy and Abrazzo, the zoo also houses a third Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise named Little Girl, as well as two giant Aldabra tortoises named Wilma and Betty. The Philadelphia Zoo serves as an important sanctuary for these remarkable creatures, reinforcing its role in global conservation efforts.