Philadelphia Zoo Welcomes New Hatchlings of Galapagos Tortoises

News Summary

The Philadelphia Zoo has announced the birth of three male hatchlings from its Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises, Mommy and Abrazzo. This accomplishment is part of a successful breeding effort to conserve this critically endangered species. The hatchlings, which emerged on April 14, are being carefully monitored alongside additional eggs due to hatch later this year. The zoo’s commitment to wildlife conservation highlights the importance of breeding programs in reversing the decline of the Galapagos tortoise population.

Philadelphia – The Philadelphia Zoo has announced the arrival of three new male hatchlings from its pair of Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises, Mommy and Abrazzo. These hatchlings are part of a successful breeding program aimed at conserving the critically endangered species, contributing positively to global efforts in wildlife preservation.

The three tortoises, which began hatching on April 14, 2025, come from the same clutch of eggs that produced four female tortoises earlier in the year. The female hatchlings have been named Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia, following a public naming contest inspired by the classic television show “The Golden Girls.” The male hatchlings, however, have yet to receive names as the zoo continues to monitor their growth and health.

Mommy, recognized as the oldest first-time mom of her species, is nearly 100 years old and has been residing at the Philadelphia Zoo since 1932. Abrazzo, who is also a mature tortoise, joined the zoo in 2020 and previously fathered five hatchlings in 2011 at the Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in Columbia, South Carolina.

Alongside the recently hatched tortoises, the zoo is currently monitoring nine additional eggs laid by Mommy in January 2025. These eggs are showing signs of development, with the hatching process typically occurring after a gestation period of four to eight months. The zoo’s expert staff is carefully observing these conditions, as temperature plays a crucial role in determining the sex of Galapagos tortoises. Temperatures below 82.4°F are conducive to male hatchlings, whereas those above 85.1°F tend to produce females.

The hatchlings are currently housed in the Reptile and Amphibian House of the Philadelphia Zoo, where they are receiving dedicated care. The zoo’s focus on breeding these tortoises aligns with wider conservation efforts, as the Galapagos tortoise population has seen a significant decline over recent decades. From an estimated 250,000 tortoises in the past, current estimates suggest there are around 17,000 remaining in the wild, making ongoing conservation vital.

Galapagos tortoises, known for their incredible lifespan, can live up to 175 years. The advancements in breeding practices at institutions like the Philadelphia Zoo are instrumental in reversing the trend of decline for this species. By educating the public and engaging them in conservation efforts, the zoo hopes to foster a greater appreciation for these unique reptiles and their ecosystems.

As part of efforts to celebrate the announcement of the new tortoise hatchlings and to raise funds for animal care, the Philadelphia Zoo is also selling merchandise linked to the hatchlings. Such initiatives help maintain the zoo’s operations and support its ongoing commitment to conservation work.

The successful hatching of these tortoises not only highlights the Philadelphia Zoo’s dedication to wildlife conservation but also marks a significant event in the history of the institution. With Mommy and Abrazzo’s contribution, both the zoo and its visitors can look forward to ongoing engagement with these enduring symbols of conservation efforts worldwide.

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Philadelphia Zoo Welcomes Hatchlings of Galapagos Tortoises

Additional Resources

• CBS News
• Wikipedia: Galápagos tortoise
• 6abc
• Google Search: Galapagos tortoise conservation
• NBC Philadelphia
• Google Scholar: Galapagos tortoise endangerment
• Philadelphia Inquirer
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Galapagos tortoise
• PHL17
• Google News: Philadelphia Zoo tortoises