Zoo Miami’s Galápagos giant, Goliath, is marking Father’s Day with a remarkable first: the 517-pound tortoise has become a dad at age 135. His first hatchling emerged on June 4 after 128 days of incubation, making it not only Goliath’s debut in fatherhood but also the very first Galápagos tortoise to hatch at the zoo. Born on Santa Cruz Island in 1890, Goliath spent decades at the Bronx Zoo before arriving in Miami in 1981, yet he had never successfully sired young until now.
His partner Sweet Pea, believed to be up to 100 years old, laid a clutch of eight eggs this winter, and together their combined age tops 200 years—a feat that has prompted Guinness World Records submissions for “Oldest First-Time Parents.” While the newborn is being cared for separately, both parents remain on display and in good health. Zoo Miami’s Ron Magill calls this milestone a reminder to never lose hope, adding that Goliath’s long-awaited success offers inspiration to visitors of all ages. This Father’s Day, Goliath proves that it’s never too late for new beginnings.