Happy 128th Birthday Methuselah!

South Dakota’s oldest resident is over 120 years-old, weighs 600 pounds, is a strict vegetarian and formerly dwelled at the Galapagos Islands.
You might have already guessed this, but the resident I’m referring to isn’t human. I’m actually talking about a tortoise named Methuselah (Earl for short), who has lived in Reptile Gardens in Rapid City since 1956.
This June marks Methuselah’s 128th birthday. Along with his birthday celebration, Reptile Gardens will also hold Guest Appreciation Weekend from the 13-14. Activities are planned for children and families, along with cake and Methuselah’s beloved watermelon, of course.
If you can’t tell by the picture, giant tortoises are a big hit with the kids. Methuselah is one of the park’s most popular attractions, and probably could be for another 70 years (The expected life span of a Galapagos Tortoise is 200 years, oh and he might just have another 100 pounds to gain). From what I gather, he lives a stress-free and slow-paced life, and enjoys spending some of his days cooling down in mud holes.
You might want to visit Methuselah the birthday boy and the over 200 other creatures like crocodiles, snakes, frogs, prairie dogs and komodo dragons at Reptile Gardens this summer. Check out their hours and tour times here.






