Recommended Free Tools
iTechGuides is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Learn more
Guinness World Records estimates that Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise, was born around 1832—making him about 194 in 2026. That is an estimate, not a recorded hatch date. His DNA and methylation have been studied for clues about aging, but the findings do not prove that a particular gene caused his exceptional lifespan.
How old is Jonathan the tortoise?
Guinness World Records estimates Jonathan’s birth year as about 1832, which puts him at approximately 194 in 2026. The organization says he was already fully mature when he arrived on St Helena in 1882, meaning he was at least 50 at the time. A photograph dated to 1882–1886 also shows him fully grown. Neither an exact hatch date nor his precise age on arrival is known. Guinness World Records’ age record therefore rests on historical evidence and an estimate.
A 2026 Guinness World Records feature says the estimate could be conservative and that Jonathan might be older than 200. That is a possibility, not an established age. The feature also notes age-related changes: he has cataracts and a diminished sense of smell, while his hearing is described as excellent. It recounts a past decline in his health and recovery with veterinary care, so “thriving” should not be taken to mean symptom-free.
Is Jonathan the tortoise still alive?
Yes. The Associated Press reported on April 2, 2026, that a social-media death rumor was false. Anne Dillon, head of communications on St Helena, told AP, “It was a hoax,” and said, “I can just assure you that he is very much alive.” AP cited a photograph supplied by the St Helena government. Read AP’s April 2, 2026 report.
#1 Best Overall
- Crawl into action with this tortoise plush toy with a checkered shell, bulging head and cuddly feet in a standing stance.
- Barnyard fun just got better with this realistic stuffed animal tortoise that is ideal for birthday gifts for kids and toddler toys.
- Small stuffed animals for kids with a farm-inspired flair bring hours of fun day or night and perfect Christmas gifts for kids.
- Kids toys with durable stitching and colorful patterns make this cute tortoise stuffed animal the perfect companion for all ages.
- Combining play with Earth-sustaining practices, The Petting Zoo is committed to providing little ones with cute and cuddly plush toys that are made from recycled water bottles.
Where does Jonathan live?
Jonathan lives in the grounds of Plantation House, the governor’s residence on the South Atlantic island of St Helena. Guinness World Records identifies him as a Seychelles giant tortoise, Aldabrachelys gigantea hololissa.
What did researchers find in Jonathan’s genes?
A 2024 bioRxiv preprint record describes a study of Jonathan’s DNA sequence and methylome—the patterns of chemical marks that help regulate gene activity. Compared with other giant tortoises, the researchers reported variants in pathways associated with aging, including DNA repair and telomere regulation. They also reported age-related differences in DNA methylation and methylation entropy when comparing Jonathan with a five-year-old Aldabra tortoise. The study record identifies the work as a preprint.
Rank #2
- 15.5" Length.
- No plastic pellets or bean bag filler.
- Cute, soft and squeezable.
- High quality. Detailed realistic design.
- Designed in the USA by Adore Plush Company.
The researchers found that regions with low methylation entropy were enriched for genes involved in the electron transport chain, a set of processes central to mitochondrial energy production. They proposed a model in which efficient energy production may be linked to maintaining low methylation entropy. That is an interpretation of the observed patterns, not proof of a causal chain.
Do Jonathan’s genes explain his extreme lifespan?
Not conclusively. The study identifies biological features that may help scientists investigate aging, but it does not show that one variant—or the proposed mitochondrial and methylation relationship—made Jonathan live so long. It also does not establish a treatment or longevity recipe for people.
Rank #3
- 26 cm Tortoise lifelike doll
- No plastic pellets or bean bag filler.
- Cute, soft and squeezable.
- Super Lovely for collection
Other tortoise research offers context, not a diagnosis of Jonathan. A 2021 comparative study reported gene duplications related to longevity and tumor suppression in turtle lineages, including Galápagos giant tortoises. Its cellular experiments found turtle cells generally resistant to oxidative stress, while Galápagos giant tortoise cells were specifically sensitive to endoplasmic-reticulum stress. The work examined species and lineages, rather than proving what caused Jonathan’s individual lifespan. The study was published in Genome Biology and Evolution on November 18, 2021.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- The colorful shell and the protruding head with friendly eyes of this desert tortoise plush toy is a crowd pleaser for little ones.
- Take adventures to the wild with this realistic stuffed animal desert tortoise that makes the best Christmas gifts for kids.
- Add these small stuffed animals for kids to your toddler toy collection for years of play with the detailed accents and durable stitching.
- Your child won’t be able to hide his surprise when receiving this cute tortoise stuffed animal as a birthday gift for boys and girls.
- Combining play with Earth-sustaining practices, The Petting Zoo is committed to providing little ones with cute and cuddly plush toys that are made from recycled water bottles.
Rank #4
- Bring home this tranquil Desert tortoise stuffed animal, you will turtley love every inch of its authentic look and soft huggable features.
- Measuring approximately 12"; This plush toy is the perfect size to go anywhere you please and is surface washable for an easier clean.
- Wild Republic lifelike stuffed animals have the realistic appearance due to the high-quality materials They are made of.
- Plush toys are not just for kids, people young and old enjoy them as gifts as well. Bring the beauty of nature to your humble abode today!
- Venture out into the world and explore as far as the eyes can see with your new partner in crime.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
