Perth Zoo and community mourn death of Galapagos Tortoise Sierra after heart disease battle

Perth Zoo has shared a touching tribute after one of its beloved Galapagos Tortoises died this week after a long health battle.

The zoo broke the news on Thursday afternoon, confirming 53-year-old Sierra had passed away despite the best efforts of veterinary staff.

They said the animal was suffering from a congenital heart issue, which prompted staff to create a specialised health plan for him in March last year.

“In the past days his health deteriorated and while it was incredibly sad to say goodbye, we know it was the right thing to do for Sierra’s welfare,” they said on Facebook.

Sierra has since been remembered as a “powerful ambassador” for the species and a crowd favourite who loved his celery — and the occasional photoshoot.

“Sierra was absolutely adored by his carers. He would often prefer to have a neck rub or shell scratch from one of his keepers rather than a crunchy carrot – rare for a tortoise!” they said.

One of Sierra’s carers, Katie, said he was “everyone’s surprise favourite”.

“From a distance, you could admire his impressive size and his endearingly dopey face, but it wasn’t until you got up close that he truly left you in awe,” she said.

“Over the years, Sierra has been a powerful ambassador for his species, meeting countless visitors during the Close Encounter and media opportunities.

“He would happily chomp away on celery while his admirers learned about the plight of his wild counterparts.”

“As a media superstar, he enjoyed some of the most elaborate birthday cakes imaginable, which were always devoured with his signature clumsy eagerness.”

The beloved animal leaves behind his brother, Cerro, who will now have a larger territory and the “undivided love and attention” of keepers.

“To our incredible team of animal carers and vet staff: thank you for giving Sierra your all,” Perth Zoo said.

“He leaves a very big shell-shaped hole in our hearts.”

The community has since penned emotional messages across social media, expressing their condonlences to the zoo.

“Rest in Peace Sierra. Always loved visiting you and admiring your size, grace and peaceful presence. Deepest sympathies to his carers and all Zoo staff xo,” Candace Josephine said.

“Rest in Peace Gorgeous Boy it’s sad to know you had to go but I’m glad your at peace after such a Wonderful life,” said another.

Galapagos Tortoises — the longest living vertebrate in the world — can live to be over 100-years-old with some even surviving past 170.