PREVIEW

A giant Galapagos tortoise has reached a milestone, celebrating his 74th birthday.

The Australian Reptile Park threw a “shell-ebration” for their oldest resident Hugo, surprising him with a fruit cake featuring his favourite treats - watermelon, rockmelon, kiwi, and berries.

Hugo has been a cherished part of the Park since 1963 and is expected to live well beyond 150 years. Weighing 183kg, he’s fully grown and remains a beloved figure among visitors.

Brandon Gifford, Operations Manager, shared, “Hugo is such a special part of our family here at the Park. His personality shines through in everything he does, and watching our visitors interact with him is always a highlight. He truly is a superstar in the animal world!”

He added, “Hugo is a living testament to the incredible longevity of Galapagos tortoises. He’s been with us for over 60 years, and he’s still charming the socks off everyone he meets. If you haven’t given Hugo’s shell a rub, you haven’t fully experienced the Park!”

Galapagos tortoises like Hugo thrive on a diet of fibrous vegetation, such as grasses, tree bark, and cacti. In captivity, they enjoy Lucerne hay, bamboo stalks, hibiscus leaves, and flowers, with occasional fruit treats to add some variety.