In brief
Philadelphia Zoo celebrates the arrival of four hatchlings from a 100-year-old tortoise pair, marking a remarkable milestone in conservation efforts.
In a historic moment for Philadelphia Zoo, a pair of critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises, aged nearly 100, have become first-time parents. The zoo announced this week that four adorable hatchlings have emerged from the shells of Abrazzo and Mommy, marking a groundbreaking achievement in the zoo's 150-year history. Notably, Mommy, who arrived at the zoo in 1932, has become the oldest known first-time mother of her species.These specific tortoises are critically endangered, with less than 50 specimens remaining in U.S. zoos. The first egg laid by Abrazzo and Mommy hatched on February 27, with additional hatchlings following closely behind. The zoo anticipates more eggs may still hatch soon. The currently hatched youngsters weigh between 70 and 80 grams and are being carefully nurtured behind-the-scenes in the Reptile and Amphibian House, where they are "eating and growing appropriately," according to zoo representatives.The zoo plans to officially introduce these hatchlings to the public on April 23, coinciding with the 93rd anniversary of Mommy’s arrival. These hatchlings are part of an essential breeding program by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums aimed at ensuring species survival and promoting genetic diversity."This moment is monumental in the saga of the Philadelphia Zoo," stated Jo-Elle Mogerman, the zoo's president and CEO. “Mommy has been a beloved figure for nearly a century, and many visitors have seen her over her long life." Abrazzo, who joined the zoo more recently in 2020 from Riverbanks Zoo in South Carolina, also plays a critical role in this exciting chapter of conservation work.Mogerman emphasized the zoo's goal of contributing to a resilient and thriving population of Galapagos tortoises, ensuring their existence on our planet for future generations.
