A Start on the High Seas
In 1854, a Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise, named Timothy, was discovered on a Portuguese privateer by Captain John Guy Courtenay-Everard of the Royal Navy. Estimated to be around 10 years old, Timothy went on to serve as a ship mascot in the British navy, witnessing the bombardment of Sevastopol during the Crimean War. She served aboard HMS Queen, HMS Princess Charlotte, and HMS Nankin, eventually becoming the last known survivor of the Crimean War.
Life at Powderham Castle
After decades at sea, Timothy retired to the Earl of Devon’s Powderham Castle in 1892. From 1935, she lived in the rose garden under the care of Camilla Gabrielle Courtenay, bearing the inscription “Where have I fallen? What have I done?” on her shell—a nod to the Courtenay family motto.
The Discovery of Her Gender
Thought to be male until 1926, Timothy surprised her owners when an attempt to breed revealed she was female. Despite her newfound identity, mating efforts proved unsuccessful.
A Long Life Remembered
Passing away in 2004 at approximately 160 years old, Timothy holds the title of the UK’s oldest known animal. She rests at Powderham Castle.
The Crimean War Veteran Who Lived to 160 🐢
A Start on the High Seas
In 1854, a Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise, named Timothy, was discovered on a Portuguese privateer by Captain John Guy Courtenay-Everard of the Royal Navy. Estimated to be around 10 years old, Timothy went… pic.twitter.com/rvuQ0IHGu6— Detective Tiger's Stories (@TigerDetective) October 30, 2024