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100-Year-Old Tortoises Welcome Rare Hatchlings at Philadelphia Zoo
First Galapagos Hatchlings at the Zoo in Over 150 Years
In a historic and heartwarming event, the Philadelphia Zoo has welcomed four Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise hatchlings—marking the first time in more than 150 years that this endangered species has been born at the zoo.
The proud parents, affectionately known as Mommy and Abrazzo, are both nearly 100 years old. Mommy, the zoo’s oldest resident, has lived at the zoo since 1932 and is estimated to be 97 years old. Her partner Abrazzo, who joined the zoo in 2020, is around 96.
A Century in the Making
The zoo’s animal care team first discovered a clutch of 16 eggs laid by Mommy in November 2024. The first of the four hatchlings—each about the size of a tennis ball—began hatching on February 27, 2025. All four babies are female and currently being carefully monitored by zookeepers.
According to zoo officials, "All are doing well, eating and behaving appropriately," and more eggs may still hatch in the coming weeks.
A Public Debut on a Special Day
The hatchlings will make their first public appearance on April 23, which marks the 93rd anniversary of Mommy's arrival at the Philadelphia Zoo. Visitors will be able to meet the little tortoises at the zoo’s Reptile and Amphibian House.
“Mommy arrived at the Zoo in 1932, meaning anyone who has visited the Zoo for the last 92 years has likely seen her,” said Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman, President and CEO of Philadelphia Zoo. “Our hope is that these hatchlings will be part of a thriving future for Galapagos tortoises, 100 years from now.”
About the Species
Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises are native to Ecuador's Santa Cruz Island in the Galápagos archipelago. They are the largest living tortoise species in the world and are listed as critically endangered, primarily due to habitat loss and human activity.
In addition to Mommy, Abrazzo, and their four hatchlings, the zoo is also home to another adult Galapagos tortoise named Little Girl, and two Aldabra giant tortoises named Betty and Wilma.
