Goliath the Tortoise Celebrates 135 Years and First Offspring at Zoo Miami
At Zoo Miami, one of nature’s most remarkable events unfolded on June 15—Goliath, a 517-pound Galapagos tortoise, celebrated both his 135th birthday and his first Father’s Day. This monumental occasion marks an incredible milestone in longevity and a significant step in conservation history.
A Long Life Meets New Life
Born between 1885 and 1890 on Santa Cruz Island in the Galapagos, Goliath has lived through major world events, yet until now, never fathered offspring. His journey from the Galapagos Islands to the Bronx Zoo in 1929, and later to Zoo Miami in 1981, speaks to a lifetime of adaptation and resilience.
Instagram | @realratedred | Ron Magill celebrates Goliath as the hero who fathered his first baby at over 100 years old.
A female tortoise known as Sweet Pea, who is thought to be 85 to 100 years old, laid eight eggs on January 27 of this year. Zoo officials monitored them closely, hoping for success. On June 4, one of those eggs hatched—making history as Goliath’s first known offspring and the first Galapagos tortoise ever hatched at Zoo Miami.
Ron Magill, a spokesman for Zoo Miami, said, “Goliath is my hero, and I am sure he will soon be an inspiration to many others.” He represents the ideas of “never give up” and “where there is a will, there is a way!”
Why This Birth Matters
Galapagos tortoises remain an endangered species. Once thriving across the Galapagos Islands, their numbers dwindled due to overhunting, invasive species, and human interference. Today, their survival depends on coordinated conservation programs around the world.
Zoo-based breeding programs play a crucial role in restoring these majestic reptiles. This birth proves that even after decades of attempts, persistence pays off—especially when it supports endangered species conservation.
Although Goliath has mated with various females over the years, none of those pairings had resulted in offspring. Until now.
A Healthy Hatchling Brings Hope
Zoo staff report that both parents are thriving in their public habitat. The hatchling is doing well too, but remains under close care in a separate area. In the wild, Galapagos tortoises do not raise their young, so zoo staff will provide all necessary care during its early life stages.
This hatchling stands as a symbol of longevity, hope, and what’s possible with long-term conservation strategies. It highlights how protected environments, expert care, and ongoing dedication can create opportunities even after more than a century of trying.
A Symbol of Hope and a Push for Conservation
Instagram | realratedred | Goliath’s unique double celebration instilled hope, confirming life’s remarkable capacity for endurance.
This breakthrough might encourage other zoological institutions to continue their efforts with renewed optimism. As awareness around habitat loss and species extinction grows, successful breeding stories like Goliath’s serve as powerful reminders of what’s at stake—and what’s still possible.
Zoo Miami remains committed to wildlife conservation and continues to educate the public about endangered species like the Galapagos tortoise. Goliath, now a father at 135, is more than just an icon—he’s a living legacy.
Goliath’s first Father’s Day and 135th birthday brought more than just celebration—it brought hope. His story proves that with enough time, care, and determination, life finds a way. As conservation efforts expand, milestones like these ignite a deeper appreciation for the species fighting to survive—and thrive.