The Philadelphia Zoo has celebrated a significant achievement with the birth of four hatchlings from critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises, Abrazzo and Mommy. This remarkable event marks the first time in the zoo's history that such tortoises have become parents, as well as Mommy's status as the oldest first-time mother of her kind. The hatchlings, now under careful monitoring, are set to make their public debut on April 23, coinciding with Mommy's long tenure at the zoo.
Historic Hatching: Philadelphia Zoo Welcomes First Giant Tortoise Offspring
Historic Hatching: Philadelphia Zoo Welcomes First Giant Tortoise Offspring
A pair of century-old tortoises at Philadelphia Zoo have made history with the birth of four endangered hatchlings, marking a significant milestone for the zoo.
In a landmark achievement, the Philadelphia Zoo has joyfully announced the hatching of four baby tortoises, born to a pair of critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises named Abrazzo and Mommy. This event marks a first in the zoo’s storied 150-year history, as Mommy, who has been a resident since 1932, becomes the oldest known first-time mother of her species.
Fewer than 50 Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises remain in captivity across U.S. zoos, highlighting the significance of this birth. The initial egg hatched on February 27, with several others following swiftly afterwards. The dedicated animal care team at the Philadelphia Zoo is continuously monitoring additional eggs that may hatch in the upcoming weeks. The newborn hatchlings each weigh between 70 to 80 grams and are currently being housed in a behind-the-scenes area in the zoo’s Reptile and Amphibian House, where they are thriving with appropriate feeding and growth.
The zoo has planned a public introduction for the hatchlings on April 23—aptly coinciding with the 93rd anniversary of Mommy's arrival at the zoo. This breeding program aligns with the efforts of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, aimed at ensuring species survival and genetic diversity. Jo-Elle Mogerman, president and CEO of the Philadelphia Zoo, expressed the significance of this milestone, stating: "Mommy's long-standing presence means that many who have visited the zoo over the decades have likely seen her."
Abrazzo, the father tortoise, is a relative newcomer to the zoo, having arrived in 2020 from Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in South Carolina. Mogerman shared her hope that these hatchlings will contribute to a thriving population of Galapagos tortoises for future generations to appreciate on a healthy planet a century from now.
