Gramma The Galapagos Tortoise, Oldest Animal At San Diego Zoo, Dies

SAN DIEGO, CA — After nearly a century of living at the San Diego Zoo, Gramma the Galapagos tortoise has died.

Gramma arrived between 1928 and 1931 as part of the zoo's first group of Galapagos tortoises. She was born in her native habitat and was estimated to be about 141 years old, according to a social media post by the San Diego Zoo.

She was the oldest resident of the world-famous zoo.

"It is astonishing to consider what Gramma lived through in her lifetime," zoo officials said. "As the world around her experienced more than 20 U.S. presidents, two World Wars, and two pandemics, she gently touched countless lives over nearly a century in San Diego as an ambassador for reptile conservation worldwide."

Gramma was described as a "quiet and constant presence" at the zoo.

Her care specialists affectionately called her "the Queen of the Zoo." She particularly loved romaine lettuce and cactus fruit.

Gramma was suffering from bone conditions related to her old age that recently progressed before she was euthanized, according to the zoo.

"Her story has become woven into the very fabric of the Zoo community, a thread connecting generations of team members, guests, volunteers, and conservationists," officials said. "Through decades of technological advancement, she went from appearing in a handful of black-and-white photographs to becoming an ever-endearing social media star.

"In her memory, we invite you to enjoy a generous, fruit-filled salad, a special tribute for a very special tortoise."