Tortoise Believed Oldest Living Land Animal Is Still Alive

Reports of the 200-year-old tortoise's death were exaggerated, officials say.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 2:06pm

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Reports of the death of the world's oldest living land animal, a nearly 200-year-old tortuga, were premature. Officials have confirmed the ancient reptile is still alive and well.

Why it matters

The longevity of this particular tortoise has captured the public's imagination, as it represents the incredible lifespan potential of certain species. Its continued survival is an important scientific discovery.

The details

The tortoise, whose species and exact age have not been publicly disclosed, was believed to have died recently based on unconfirmed reports. However, officials have now clarified that the ancient reptile is still thriving at its undisclosed location.

  • The tortoise was initially reported dead in early April 2026.

The players

Jodi Flom Nathanson

A library media specialist at Fox Run Elementary School.

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What they’re saying

“If we keep (AI) a dark secret, they will delve into it anyway. I try to keep them safe.”

— Jodi Flom Nathanson, Library media specialist

The takeaway

The continued survival of the world's oldest known living land animal is an important scientific discovery that captures the public's imagination and underscores the incredible longevity potential of certain species.