What the data shows
Is Jonathan the tortoise really dead? This question has sparked widespread concern and confusion, especially given Jonathan’s status as the world’s oldest living land animal. Fortunately, the answer is a resounding no—Jonathan is very much alive.
Reports of Jonathan’s death were based on a hoax account on X, which posed as his veterinarian. This fake account claimed that the Seychelles giant tortoise had passed away peacefully, leading to significant alarm among his fans and the local community on St Helena, where he has lived since 1882.
Joe Hollins, Jonathan’s real caretaker, confirmed that the tortoise is alive, stating, “Jonathan is very much alive.” The governor of St Helena, Nigel Phillips, also verified Jonathan’s well-being after checking on him personally. Phillips humorously remarked, “The report of my death was an exaggeration,” putting to rest the fears that had spread rapidly online.
At an impressive age of at least 194 years, Jonathan has witnessed remarkable historical events, including the reign of eight British monarchs and two world wars. His longevity has made him a beloved figure on the island, where he has become a symbol of resilience and history.
The hoax post gained traction, amassing over 2 million views, which reflects the deep affection the public holds for Jonathan. However, it also raised concerns about the potential for scams, as the hoax account solicited cryptocurrency donations under false pretenses. Hollins warned, “IT IS NOT TRUE. The hoaxer is asking for crypto donations. It’s a con.”
Jonathan’s popularity is undeniable; he even appears on the reverse of St Helena’s 5p coin. His strong appetite for bananas and attempts to mate with younger tortoises have endeared him to many, making the recent hoax even more distressing for his fans.
The local community’s reaction to the hoax was significant, showcasing how much Jonathan means to the people of St Helena. As the world continues to celebrate this remarkable tortoise, the incident serves as a reminder of the power and danger of misinformation in the digital age.
While Jonathan remains alive and well, details surrounding the motivations of the hoaxer remain unconfirmed. The incident has sparked discussions on how to better protect beloved public figures from similar scams in the future.