Jonathan Takes a Bath

On Saturday 19 March 2016, an historic event took place in the grounds of Plantation House, St Helena Island. Jonathan the Giant Tortoise - the oldest known living land animal on Earth and creakingly old national treasure at an estimated age of 184 years - was washed for the first time in recorded history by vet Dr Joe Hollins. Joe explained that the reason for bathing Jonathan came after he cleaned - and transformed - the shell of one of the female tortoises at Plantation House. Joe consulted a tortoise specialist to establish the method of cleaning, which includes gentle, circular scrubbing using non-abrasive materials. Filmed and Edited: Kimberley Yon - Roberts (SHG’s Press Office)