World's Oldest Tortoise Jonathan Targeted by Viral Crypto Death Scam
Jonathan, the world's oldest known land animal at 194 years old, has survived two world wars, the rise and fall of the British empire, and now a sophisticated cryptocurrency scam that falsely reported his death to millions online. The Seychelles giant tortoise, who has resided on the grounds of the governor's mansion on Saint Helena since 1882, was declared dead in a viral social media post that sparked global misinformation.
Fake Vet Account Sparks Global False Reports
An X account posing as Jonathan's veterinarian, Joe Hollins, posted a heartfelt but entirely fabricated announcement claiming the tortoise had "passed away peacefully" on Saint Helena. The post, which garnered over 2 million views, described hand-feeding bananas and marveling at Jonathan's "quiet wisdom," concluding with a request for cryptocurrency donations. Major news outlets including the BBC, Daily Mail, and USA Today initially reported the false news as fact, only to retract it after verification revealed the account was based in Brazil and the real vet does not use X.
The genuine Joe Hollins confirmed to the Guardian that Jonathan is "very much alive" and condemned the post as a con rather than an April fool's joke. The impostor's solicitation of crypto donations coincided with the BBC's publication and subsequent retraction, highlighting how quickly misinformation can spread through trusted channels.
Jonathan's Actual Status and Historical Significance
Jonathan, who was a youngster when Queen Victoria ascended to the throne, remains a local celebrity on Saint Helena, even appearing on the reverse of the island's 5p coin. Despite being blind from cataracts and having lost his sense of smell, he maintains a strong appetite for bananas and a healthy libido, often attempting to mate with two younger tortoises on the property. His longevity and resilience have made him an inspiration to millions worldwide.
Governor Nigel Phillips recounted being inundated with anxious messages on Wednesday night, prompting him to search the grounds and confirm Jonathan was "asleep under a tree in the paddock." In a humorous twist, Phillips shared that Jonathan issued a mock press statement referencing Mark Twain: "The report of my death was an exaggeration."
Broader Implications and Historical Context
This incident underscores the growing threat of online scams exploiting public figures and beloved animals for financial gain through cryptocurrency. Jonathan's story spans centuries, having met members of the royal family including King George VI and Queen Elizabeth II during their 1947 visit to Saint Helena. His survival through historical epochs only to face modern digital deception adds a poignant layer to his legacy.
Authorities are investigating the fake account, which has since been taken down, but the event serves as a cautionary tale about verifying sources in the age of viral misinformation. Jonathan continues to bask in the sun on Saint Helena, unaware of the global stir caused by his purported demise, while his caretakers emphasize his ongoing health and vitality.
