Overview
- Guinness World Records officially named Jonathan a GWR ICON on June 17, 2026, recognising him as the world's oldest known living land animal at about 194 years old.
- The age estimate traces Jonathan to about 1832 and is supported by a photograph dated between 1882 and 1886 showing a fully grown tortoise at Plantation House on St Helena.
- Caretakers and local veterinarians report Jonathan has lost his vision and sense of smell but remains active, continues to eat well, and lives in the governor’s garden with other tortoises.
- Researchers have begun analysing Jonathan's DNA and cellular markers to look for biological clues about his unusually long lifespan that could inform ageing studies.
- St Helena officials say the award highlights Jonathan's role as a cultural and tourism symbol for the island and follows earlier false reports of his death that were debunked this year.