World's oldest known tortoise is still alive
AP News • • world
Key Points:
- Reports of the death of Jonathan, the world's oldest living land animal, a 193-year-old tortoise, were false and originated from an April Fools' Day hoax.
- Jonathan remains alive on the island of St. Helena, confirmed by Anne Dillon, head of communications on the island.
- A fake social media account impersonating veterinarian Joe Hollins falsely announced Jonathan's death, gaining nearly 2 million views and soliciting cryptocurrency donations.
- Joe Hollins clarified he has no social media account and labeled the post a scam.
- Jonathan holds the Guinness World Record as the oldest living land animal and was brought to St. Helena around 1882 at about 50 years old.
