In brief
The Philadelphia Zoo celebrates a historic milestone with the birth of four baby tortoises.
In a heartwarming first for the Philadelphia Zoo, a pair of critically endangered giant tortoises, Abrazzo and Mommy, have become parents! The proud duo, both around 100 years old, welcomed four hatchlings - a sweet surprise marking a significant milestone in the zoo’s 150-year history. Mommy, the oldest first-time tortoise mother known, has been a resident since 1932! With fewer than 50 of these Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises in U.S. zoos, every new hatchling is vital for the species’ survival. The first egg hatched on February 27, and the other three followed swiftly, with the zoo's staff keeping a close eye on more eggs that may hatch soon.These adorable hatchlings weigh between 70-80 grams and currently live behind-the-scenes in the Reptile and Amphibian House, where they're happily eating and growing. The public will get to meet them on April 23, which also marks the 93rd anniversary of Mommy's arrival.With a focus on conservation, these hatchlings are part of a breeding program aimed at ensuring the long-term survival of Galapagos tortoises, keeping hope alive for a thriving population a century from now. "We're thrilled to share this milestone with everyone," said Jo-Elle Mogerman, zoo president and CEO!
