This year, the oldest tortoises at the Philadelphia Zoo, Mommy and Abrazzo, have welcomed multiple hatchlings, bringing their total offspring to 16, which significantly boosts the species' population in North American conservation efforts.

The hatchlings are expected to remain at the zoo for at least a year before being transferred to other conservation facilities, ensuring their growth and genetic diversity.

The zoo is inviting donors to suggest names for one of the hatchlings, with several already named, including Zee, James, Colette, and others, using color-coded nail polish for identification.

Two of the newly named tortoises are Roger and Isabella, with a fundraising campaign allowing donors to win naming rights for a small donation, supporting ongoing animal care and conservation initiatives.

The story of Mommy and Abrazzo has garnered global attention, featured in over 16,000 media stories, social media, and even on Saturday Night Live, highlighting the zoo’s success in raising awareness for conservation.

This event underscores the importance of genetic diversity in species survival and highlights ongoing efforts to conserve these tortoises.