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A Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise hatchling in its habitat at the Reptile and Amphibian House at Philadelphia Zoo.

Meet Our Hatchlings

After gaining worldwide attention after announcing their historic arrival, we are excited to share that our Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise hatchlings will make their debut to the public at noon on Wednesday, April 23 at the Reptile and Amphibian House.

This day also marks Mommy’s 93rd anniversary of arriving at Philadelphia Zoo. We are expecting large crowds that day, so please plan accordingly and expect lines getting into the exhibit. Our team will be there to help the flow as well as host additional education stations to learn all about them.

Read Our Hatchlings' Story
A Galapagos tortoise hatchling walks across a blank canvas with non-toxic green paint on the bottoms of its feet and its shell.

Tortoise Painting Auction

In addition to choosing names, the Zoo is auctioning off a one-of-a-kind painting made by the hatchlings! To create it, the babies walked across a canvas with non-toxic paint on their feet. Every dollar donated is an entry to win ($1 = 1 entry, $20 = 20 entries, etc). The money raised in this auction will go toward the Zoo’s conservation fund. The auction is open now through Sunday, April 27 at 11:59 pm.

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Limited Edition Tortoise T-Shirts

Also in celebration of the hatchlings' debut, the Zoo has designed t-shirts to support their care. The three designs are based off of photos taken of the baby tortoises and Mommy. Slogans include “Never Too Late,” “Saving Species Since 1859,” and “Live Long and Grow a Thick Shell.” Part of the proceeds will go to the Zoo’s animal care fund. 

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A Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise hatchling in its habitat at the Reptile and Amphibian House at Philadelphia Zoo.

Adopt A Galapagos Tortoise

By adopting a Philadelphia Zoo animal, you share your love for animals by helping ours receive the best possible care. With over 1,900 mouths to feed, the Zoo’s annual grocery bill is over $500,000—your adopt purchase helps us buy monkey chow, trout, honey, mealworms, and much more!

Adopt Now
A giant tortoise looks into the lens in its enclosure in the Reptile and Amphibian House at Philadelphia Zoo.

Behind the Scenes: Giant Tortoises

Our Galapagos and Aldabra tortoises may be almost 100 years old, but they are full of life and personality! You and a zookeeper will embark on a unique experience, petting and feeding these gentle giants inside their habitat. They love the attention and are eager to meet you!

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