Alexander the Great: Giant Tortoise Begins New Chapter
A new chapter for our coastal conservation at Vipingo Ridge, mixed with a bittersweet farewell, began today as Alexander the Great, a beloved 40-year-old Giant Tortoise of Seychelles origin, was successfully translocated from Mtwapa to his new home at the Vipingo Ridge Wildlife Sanctuary.
About the Giant Tortoise of Seychelles
The tortoise, known as ‘Alexander the Great’ (and he knows his name) is a giant tortoise, of Aldabrachelys . He is a member of the threatened species group that is known to be among the longest-lived animals on the planet.
Some individual Aldabra giant tortoises are thought to be over 200 years of age.
It is difficult to verify for their longevity, and Alexander the Great is believed to be around 40 years old and in the prime of his life.
Relocation and transfers with Kenya Wildlife Service
Following paperwork and correct procedures with our partner Kenya Wildlife Services, we are proud to have brought to life the vision of the Chernel family, who have had Alexander The Great in their family for around 40 years, and Misty Holmes and her husband, described by local conservationists as dedicated 'guardians of nature,' who worked closely as an escort alongside the KWS team, ensuring the safe arrival.
Alexander’s relocation became necessary because the Chernel family themselves relocated, making it impossible to provide the required space and environment for a tortoise of his size and lifespan at their new location.
The family have been searching for an option for Alexander’s new home, hoping to improve his situation.
The Chernel family explained that while it was incredibly difficult to say goodbye to a member of their family, they were certain that Vipingo Ridge provided the necessary expansive, protected habitat for Alexander to thrive. His well-being and long-term security were their paramount concern:
It’s taken many months of planning, meetings, letters, preparation and coordination. Many, many thanks go out, including to Vipingo Ridge Conservancy for agreeing to take on Alexander as it’s a lifelong commitment… and especially to Misty Holmes for making this happen.
Leaving his home of 13 years for a new adventure
Life for Alexander the Great at Vipingo Ridge
Alexander the Great, who knows his name and is also known to enjoy watermelon as his favourite treat during the warm months, is expected to become a star resident at the conservancy.
As his new home-Boma, we have started him in the fully fenced Vipingo Ridge Sports Club, a much bigger area than his home of the last 13-years which was a downsized area, so this green space is a big improvement. This will allow members and guests a close, respectful view of this magnificent reptile, while we keep him safe from traffic and other hazards as he settles in.
Arriving at his new sanctuary
Please Respect our newest resident
Homeowners, Guest and our team are reminded that while Alexander the Great is generally harmless, he must be treated with utmost care and respect as a wild animal. Please note:
Alexander the Great is not to be ridden or petted and is not familiar with such activities and may react.
If you would like to make a food donation, this should be made to the Ranger team for him through Conservation Manager Kuso, we do not yet have the routine for special feeding times for him, but will progress as he settles into his new home.
For safety and his well-being, feeding the tortoise directly by hand is strictly prohibited.
Introduction of Giant Tortoise species at Vipingo Ridge
As Alexander the Great settles into his new home, we are focused on understanding his routine and habits, with our Ranger team working closely with handler Daniel to create an engaging and fulfilling life for Alexander the Great.
The hunt for a companion by Misty Holmes and Mr Kuso Abdallah the Conservation Manager at Vipingo Ridge continues, as he is in the prime of his life. Very sadly his long-time partner Cleopatra was stolen while in Mtwapa and he has been unhappy alone, so we hope to change this.
Vipingo Ridge Ranger team will be focused on gaining experience of tortoise care with Daniel, and in due course potentially opening up Alexander the Great’s roaming space, using our tracking software and gathering data on his preferences, but for now we are focussed on acclimatising him to his new home boma.
Vipingo Ridge Wildlife Sanctuary
In 2020 Vipingo Ridge became a licensed Wildlife Sanctuary under KCWA (Kenya Conservation and Welfare Assocation) partnering with KWS to rehome species and this latest project marks another exciting chapter for our conservation journey.
The successful transfer, made possible through the coordinated efforts of the Chernel family, the KWS team, our Rangers and the dedicated oversight of Misty Holmes and handler Daniel Mutinda, marks another milestone in collaborative efforts to protect vulnerable species along the Kenyan coast.
More about Wildlife and Conservation at Vipingo Ridge:
