Farewell Lonesome George

Lonesome George, the last of the Pinta Giant Tortoises passed away in his pen a few days ago…

The passing of an old friend is never easy, especially when they are so young… only about 100 years of age. One hundred, young? Considering these Giant Tortoises live 150 years or more, Lonesome George was expected to be around for at least a few more decades! Every visit to the Galapagos I went to see him, the expectation that he would always be there during my lifetime. When I visit in August, his large pen with still be in use by other tortoises… but it will seem empty.

George was discovered roaming the island of Pinta, the last of the saddleback variety of Giant Tortoise found on this tiny island. Decimated by sailors needing portable meat for long voyages, somehow George escaped their grasp.

For decades the Darwin Center on the island of Santa Cruz has tried to find others of George’s kind in zoos around the world, and recently came close with a couple from a nearby island. Their DNA was nearly the same. But alas, no Little Georges were to be had.

George’s image will carry on as a symbol of preservation, not just for the Galapagos Islands, but for species on the brink throughout the world.

Rest in peace, George… you are lonesome no more…