Jonathan, world's oldest known land animal falsely named in viral crypto death hoax

Jonathan, the world’s oldest land animal falsely became the victim of a viral crypto death hoax.

Jonathan, a giant tortoise has now reached the age of 194.

After multiple U.S. media outlets reported falsely the death of Jonathan following after an X (formerly Twitter) account posted the news identifying as Jonathan’s vet.

The post carried the caption that reads, “Joe Hollins: Heartbroken to share that our beloved Jonathan, the world’s oldest living land animal, has passed away today peacefully on Saint Helena.”

It added, “As his vet for many years, it was an honour to care for him—hand-feeding bananas, watching him bask in the sun and marvelling at his quiet wisdom.”

He leaves behind a legacy of resilience and longevity that inspired millions. Rest easy, old friend. You’ll be missed more than words can say.”

The fact that the post gained significant traction on social media garnering over 1.8 million views.

However, The Guardian, in its report revealed the account is based in Brazil and approached the real vet who doesn’t use X (formerly Twitter) at all.

The real joe Hollins, whom the outlet interviewed, told, “Jonathan the tortoise is very much alive. I believe on X the person purporting to be me is asking for crypto donations, so it’s not even an April fool joke. It’s a con.”

‘The impostor was indeed asking for cryptocurrency donations at the time the BBC published—and later retracted—its report,’ the publication added in its report.

How old is the tortoise Jonathan?

Jonathan, a Seychelles giant tortoise, is the world’s oldest known animal on earth.

He has made his home on the grounds of the governor’s mansion in Saint Helena since 1882, when he first arrived as a gift to the South Atlantic island.