In a remarkable milestone, Henry, the world’s oldest known crocodile, celebrated his 124th birthday at the Crocodile Conservation Centre in Scottburgh, South Africa, where he has lived since 1985.
Born in the Okavango Delta in Botswana, Henry spent much of his early life navigating its winding waterways. Now nearly five metres long and weighing an impressive 750 kilograms, he shares his habitat with numerous females, with whom he has fathered more than 10,000 offspring during his time at the centre.
Henry’s annual birthday celebration has become a cherished tradition at the conservation centre. This year, guests enjoyed cake before joining in a rendition of “Happy Birthday” for the ancient reptile—a fitting tribute to a creature that has witnessed over a century of change in the natural world.
The festivities not only honoured Henry’s extraordinary longevity but also highlighted the centre’s commitment to crocodile conservation and education, drawing visitors from far and wide to marvel at this living piece of history.
