In a heartwarming and shell-shocking turn of events, a Galapagos tortoise named Speedy celebrated his 135th birthday and his first Father’s Day at Zoo Miami this past weekend. The ancient reptile, known for his slow but steady ways, was surprised by zookeepers with a special cake made of his favorite foods – lettuce, carrots, and strawberries.
“It’s truly a miracle that Speedy has made it to this ripe old age,” said Dr. Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist and honorary tortoise whisperer. “He’s seen it all – from the invention of the wheel to the rise of TikTok influencers. He truly is a testament to the power of slow and steady wins the race.”
Speedy, who has been a resident of Zoo Miami for over a century, was joined by his offspring, a young tortoise named Turbo, who was born just in time for Father’s Day. The proud papa couldn’t contain his excitement at becoming a father for the first time at such a ripe old age.
“I never thought I’d be changing diapers at 135, but hey, life is full of surprises,” Speedy quipped, as he watched Turbo clumsily navigate his way around the enclosure. “I just hope he doesn’t inherit my slow genes – I don’t want him to be known as Turbo the Tortoise Who Can’t Keep Up.”
Visitors to the zoo were delighted by the sight of Speedy and Turbo bonding over their shared love of lettuce and basking in the sun. Many took to social media to share their thoughts on the unlikely father-son duo.
“Speedy and Turbo are the ultimate #DadGoals – slow and steady wins the fatherhood race!” tweeted one zoo-goer, along with a photo of the pair napping in the shade.
As Speedy blew out the candles on his lettuce cake, surrounded by his adoring fans, he couldn’t help but feel grateful for the long and fulfilling life he had lived.
“I may be old, but I’ve still got a lot of miles left in this shell,” Speedy declared, as he gazed out at the crowd of well-wishers. “Who knows, maybe I’ll even become a great-grandfather someday. Watch out, world – the tortoise dynasty is just getting started!”
