Post by: loulou on June 26, 2006, 03:24:51 am
Harriet The Tortoise Dies Aged 175
Harriet, the world famous giant tortoise has died at her zoo in Melbourne. She was aged about 175.
Harriet was born in 1830 and brought to England by Charles Darwin. In 1842 John Wickam retired from the English Navy and brought Harriet back with him to Australia. Up until her death, Harriet was the oldest living tortoise of her sub-species and the oldest Tortoise in captivity.
John Hangar, senior vet at the Australian Zoo, told journalists that Harriet had died of heart failure following a short illness. She died peacefully in her sleep.
Staff at the zoo had thrown a party just a few months ago to celebrate Harriet’s 175th birthday. She had lived at the zoo for 17 years and was considered the star attraction.
Zoo staff credited her longevity to a stress-free life.
Harriet was born in 1830 and brought to England by Charles Darwin. In 1842 John Wickam retired from the English Navy and brought Harriet back with him to Australia. Up until her death, Harriet was the oldest living tortoise of her sub-species and the oldest Tortoise in captivity.
John Hangar, senior vet at the Australian Zoo, told journalists that Harriet had died of heart failure following a short illness. She died peacefully in her sleep.
Staff at the zoo had thrown a party just a few months ago to celebrate Harriet’s 175th birthday. She had lived at the zoo for 17 years and was considered the star attraction.
Zoo staff credited her longevity to a stress-free life.
Post by: oldspice on June 26, 2006, 07:50:48 am
Post by: minty on June 26, 2006, 11:50:24 am
Post by: goldencup on June 26, 2006, 05:19:06 pm
Post by: Jamsi on June 26, 2006, 10:11:58 pm
Post by: oldspice on June 26, 2006, 10:12:27 pm
Post by: goldencup on June 27, 2006, 08:45:54 am
She was massive! Apparently they are going to preserve her shell.
Post by: Jamsi on June 27, 2006, 02:26:29 pm
I suppose it would make a nice house for someone!