134-Year-Old Galapagos Tortoise Becomes a Dad: A Historic First for Miami Zoo

Goliat, a 134-year-old Galapagos tortoise residing at the Miami Zoo, has achieved a remarkable feat—fatherhood. This historic event occurred on June 4th, 2025, when one of eight eggs laid by Sweet Pea, a female Galapagos tortoise, hatched. The zoo's first Galapagos tortoise birth coincides with Goliat's 134th birthday, making him a contender for the title of "oldest first-time father in history." Zoo staff are thrilled with the successful hatching, highlighting the significance of this event for the conservation of this critically endangered species. While Goliat himself seemed relatively uninterested in his offspring, the event marks a significant milestone in the zoo's breeding program. "It's truly remarkable," said a zookeeper, "to witness such a significant contribution to conservation from an animal of such advanced age." The zoo has submitted an application to Guinness World Records to officially recognize Goliat's achievement.