This giant 255-year-old tortoise, once reportedly owned by Lord Clive, has been at the Alipore Zoo in Kolkata ever since the zoo opened 130 years ago. 

 

Long innings

• The tortoise was brought to Kolkata, along with three others, from the Seychelles Islands by British seafarers and presented to Lord Clive.
• The four giant tortoises were kept in Lord Clive's Laat Bagan house at Barrackpore.
• Three of the tortoises died in these environs.In 1875, the sole survivor was transferred to Alipore Zoo when the zoo was established in 1875.
• The 250 kg, dark gray tortoise is a vegetarian of simple habits.
• He is a staunch bachelor.There are no records of his progeny or liaisons.
• In recognition of his age, the West Bengal government to find it a suitable name, followed by a christening ceremony.
• Zoo authorities are also planning a bigger enclosure for him.It has been living in the same rocky enclosure for the past 130 years.