An update from Tortoise Tunnel
7 October 2026
It is with great sadness that we share the news that Biggy, the Aldabra giant tortoise, has passed away.
Estimated to be over 100 years old, and weighing almost 200kg, Biggy was Jersey Zoo’s biggest resident, and much-loved by visitors, staff and volunteers.
Since Biggy arrived at Jersey Zoo in November 2022, his keepers and veterinary team have worked tirelessly to investigate and treat his longstanding health problems. This has included two operations, specialist investigations and ongoing treatment.
Many of you followed his journey to the Royal Veterinary College for specialist CT scans recently, alongside fellow tortoise Mike. Unfortunately, Biggy’s condition had deteriorated since then. Despite efforts from our dedicated veterinary team, the growth around his cloaca returned rapidly. Having already undergone two surgeries, they affected such a large area that further operations would have risked causing permanent damage to its function.
After careful consideration and following a thorough process, we made the heartbreaking decision to put Biggy to sleep to prevent further pain.
Reflecting on the loss of Biggy, Ciaran Westgate, Jersey Zoo’s Curator of Herpetology and Invertebrates said:
"Although Biggy has only been with us for just shy of 4 years, he has very quickly become a popular member of the Jersey Zoo family for staff, volunteers and visitors alike. The team and I have worked very closely with Biggy during this time, and we are all incredibly sad to have to make this decision, but we know it is the kindest thing for Biggy. I'm incredibly grateful to the veterinary team, who have dedicated a significant amount of time to Biggy's health and welfare.
The loss of our gentle giant will take time for the team and the other Aldabra tortoises to process so please bear with us during this tough period,"
