Darwin the Aldabra tortoise has died aged 105, Blackpool Zoo has announced.
The much-loved animal was the oldest resident at the zoo and died on Wednesday, April 13.
The zoo said it was "extremely saddened" to announce the reptile's death.
Darwin was suffering from an incurable leg injury and his condition had deteriorated.
1/7 It is with great sadness that we announce that Darwin, the zoo’s oldest resident and much loved Aldabra tortoise, has passed away.
— Blackpool Zoo (@BlackpoolZoo) April 13, 2022
Darwin had been receiving specialist treatment for a severe progressive leg problem for a period of time. pic.twitter.com/OHvbIwud9m
Announcing the news on Twitter, Blackpool Zoo said: "Despite all the best efforts of his keepers and veterinary team, and consulting with leading worldwide reptile veterinarians, sadly there was no cure and his condition deteriorated, and the very difficult decision was made to put him to sleep.
"Darwin arrived before the zoo opened in 1972 and became an iconic animal due to his vast size and being the first animal that people encountered when visiting the zoo.
"He had a personality on par with his size, making him a hugely popular member of our zoo family and was loved by all of our visitors. Staff and keepers are extremely saddened at his passing and are being comforted by the kind messages of condolence we are receiving."
Darwin's exact age was unknown due to the lack of detailed records of his history.
Aldabra tortoises are one of the largest species in the world and come from the islands of Aldabra Atoll, Seychelles.
They are the longest living animal on the planet.
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