Philadelphia Zoo reveals names for tortoise hatchlings after public vote

The Philadelphia Zoo has revealed that its four Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise hatchlings have been named Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia, after the main characters from the classic TV show 'The Golden Girls.' These names were selected through a public vote in which more than 13,000 people participated. The hatchlings, born to parents Mommy and Abrazzo—both around 100 years old—represent a historic event, as Mommy is the oldest first-time mother of her species. The zoo welcomed these babies earlier this month, marking the first time in over 150 years that the zoo has had a clutch of this tortoise species. The Philadelphia Zoo reports that the hatchlings are doing well and are now on display at the Reptile & Amphibian House. The naming event generated significant public interest and media coverage, highlighting the conservation importance of this critically endangered species.