Goliath, a 517-pound Galapagos tortoise and the oldest animal at Zoo Miami, has become a father for the first time at the age of 135. Zoo officials announced the news on Facebook, calling it a historic moment for both the zoo and conservation efforts. The hatchling is the first Galapagos tortoise ever bred and hatched at the South Florida zoo.
Zoo Miami has applied to Guinness World Records to recognize Goliath as the world’s “Oldest First-Time Father.” The zoo also seeks recognition for Goliath and his mate, Sweet Pea, as the “Oldest First-Time Parents.” Together, the pair’s combined age exceeds 200 years.
Goliath, who was born on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos between 1885 and 1890, arrived in the United States in 1929 and has lived at Zoo Miami since 1981. Despite breeding attempts with several females over the decades, this is his first confirmed offspring. Sweet Pea, his companion, is believed to be between 85 and 100 years old and has been at the zoo since 1960.
The successful hatching took place on June 4, 2025, after 128 days of incubation. The hatchling came from a clutch of eight eggs laid by Sweet Pea on January 27. Only one egg hatched. Zoo officials are keeping the young tortoise in a secure, monitored enclosure. Goliath and Sweet Pea remain in their public habitat.
Galapagos tortoises are native to Ecuador’s Galapagos Islands. They are listed as endangered due to past exploitation and habitat loss. The successful breeding at Zoo Miami is seen as an important achievement for the conservation of this species, which faces modern threats from climate change and invasive species.
The zoo praised Goliath’s determination, calling him an inspiration. The application for his potential world record is currently under review. Zoo Miami plans to continue its breeding and conservation work, focusing on protecting endangered reptile species.
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