4 Rare Galapagos Tortoises Hatch At Philadelphia Zoo, From Oldest First-Time Mom Of Species

For the first time in its 150-year history, the Philadelphia Zoo has successfully hatched four critically endangered Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises—an achievement hailed as both a historic milestone and a vital step for conservation.

The hatchlings are the offspring of the Zoos two oldest residents, Mommy and Abrazzo, both estimated to be around 100 years old. Mommy, who arrived at the Zoo in 1932, is not only the oldest first-time mother of her species but also one of the most genetically valuable Galapagos tortoises in the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) Species Survival Plan (SSP). The hatchlings, which weigh around 70–80 grams each, are currently being monitored behind the scenes but will make their public debut on April 23—marking the 93rd anniversary of Mommys arrival.

“This is a significant milestone in the history of Philadelphia Zoo, and we couldnt be more excited to share this news with our city, region, and the world,” said Zoo President and CEO Dr. Jo-Elle Mogerman. “Philadelphia Zoos vision is that those hatchlings will be a part of a thriving population of Galapagos tortoises on our healthy planet 100 years from now.”

Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoises are listed as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Threats to their survival include habitat loss, invasive species, and human-wildlife conflict. With only 44 individuals in U.S. zoos prior to this clutch, the birth of these tortoises adds much-needed genetic diversity to the population.

The Zoos participation in the AZA SSP has been years in the making. Abrazzo arrived in 2020 from Riverbanks Zoo in South Carolina on a breeding recommendation. In 2021, supporters contributed funds on Giving ZOO Day to provide Mommy with new nesting substrate. Since then, Mommy has laid four clutches, with the most recent, laid in November 2024, resulting in viable eggs. The reptile and amphibian team incubated the eggs under specific temperatures to produce female hatchlings.

“This successful outcome comes from years of hard work studying animal behavior and providing top-level care,” said Lauren Augustine, Director of Herpetology and Birds. “Until now, Mommys genes were not represented in the AZA population, making these offspring extremely important in the protection of this species.”

Ashley Ortega, SSP Coordinator and Studbook Keeper for the species, called it a “monumental achievement,” especially given Mommys age. “This feat is even more incredible considering that Mommy is the oldest first-time producing female of her species in any U.S. zoo.”

Visitors can view the hatchlings beginning April 23 at the Reptile and Amphibian House. The Zoo also offers behind-the-scenes experiences with Mommy and Abrazzo on select days, providing a rare opportunity to meet the parents of this remarkable next generation.