Beloved Hugo the Galapagos tortoise, the oldest resident at Australian Reptile Park, has hit the massive milestone of turning 73 years old.
The day was full of celebration, with keepers presenting him with a delicious cake featuring watermelon and hibiscus – his two favourite snacks.
The cake was presented to Hugo by his keepers, and he excitedly (and… very… slowly) approached it before devouring it as quick as he could manage.
The fruits are a special rare treat for Hugo, something keepers know Hugo looks forward to every year.
After he devoured his cake, Hugo went on his daily walk to receive more pats and love from visitors who came to the Australian Reptile Park to say happy birthday to one of its most famous residents.
Hugo has called the wildlife sanctuary home since 1963.
He has now reached middle age and is expected to live well over 150 years.
At 183kgs, he is fully grown and one of the Australian Reptile Park’s most iconic animals.
“Anyone who meets Hugo knows he is not your regular tortoise,” reptile keeper Imogen Hall said.
“He is full of personality and will greet anyone with a big smile.
“I love working with him and watching everyone’s faces light up when they see him for the first time.
“I always say if you didn’t give Hugo’s shell a rub, you haven’t visited the Australian Reptile Park – it really does give you good luck.”
Visitors can see Hugo at the Australian Reptile Park every single day during the school holidays and even accompany Hugo on his daily walk at 11am throughout the Main Park area.
Guests looking for a more personal experience can book a Behind the Scenes tour where they can meet Hugo, enter his enclosure, feed him and give him lots of pats.
The Galapagos tortoise’s diet consists of any green vegetation they can find, along with fibrous vegetation such as grass, tree bark and cacti.
The Park is set to celebrate its 75th birthday during the Spring school holidays, featuring live entertaining shows, themed exhibits and interaction with many of the wildlife park’s residents.
Source:
The Australian Reptile Park