The Remarkable Lifespan of Turtles
Humans may live on average just under 80 years, but some turtles and tortoises live much longer. Certain species of sharks, whales, clams, and sea urchins can reach hundreds of years, yet turtles often stand out for their impressive longevity. As Disney’s Crush in Finding Nemo quipped, “Hundred and fifty, dude, and still young” — and science confirms this is true for many turtles and tortoises.
How Long Do Turtles Live?
According to the Turtle Conservation Society, most turtle species live between 10 and 80 years. However, larger species such as sea turtles and land tortoises can live far beyond 150 years. Some researchers even estimate that certain giant tortoises could reach ages of 400 to 500 years, though these claims remain difficult to verify since humans rarely observe the beginning of their lives.
Meet the World’s Oldest Turtles
Throughout history, several turtles and tortoises have become famous for their extraordinary lifespans. While their exact ages are often contested, they remain living testaments to the resilience of these animals.
#5. Harriet the Giant Galapagos Land Tortoise
- Age: 175 (estimated)
- Species: Giant Galapagos land tortoise (Chelonoidis niger)
- Lived: Australia
Collected by Charles Darwin in 1835, Harriet lived most of her life in Australia, captivating zoo visitors until her death in 2006. She was recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest living chelonian of her time.
#4. Jonathan the Seychelles Giant Tortoise
- Age: 189 (estimated)
- Species: Seychelles giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa)
- Lives: Saint Helena
Jonathan is still alive today and holds the title of the oldest known living land animal. He was brought to Saint Helena in 1882 and continues to thrive well past the age of 180.
#3. Tu’i Malila the Radiated Tortoise
- Age: 189
- Species: Radiated tortoise (Astrochelys radiata)
- Lived: Tonga
A gift from Captain James Cook to the royal family of Tonga, Tu’i Malila lived until 1966 and remains preserved in the Royal Palace. Guinness World Records recognizes her as one of the longest-lived verified tortoises.
#2. Adwaita the Aldabra Giant Tortoise
- Age: 255 (unverified)
- Species: Aldabra giant tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea)
- Lived: Kolkata, India
Adwaita’s reported lifespan stretched back to the mid-1700s, though evidence is anecdotal. He lived at Alipore Zoo until his death in 2006, and while his exact age is debated, he remains a legend of longevity.
#1. Alagba the African Spur-Thighed Tortoise
- Age: 344 (contested)
- Species: African spur-thighed tortoise (Geochelone sulcata)
- Lived: Nigeria
Reportedly over 300 years old, Alagba was said to have lived in a Nigerian royal palace until her death in 2019. Many experts doubt the accuracy of this age, suggesting that the tortoise’s identity may have been passed on through multiple individuals bearing the same name.
A Legacy of Longevity
Turtles and tortoises continue to amaze scientists and animal lovers alike with their resilience and lifespans that stretch across centuries. Whether verified or legendary, these remarkable creatures embody patience, endurance, and the mysteries of time in the natural world.
