He’s been called a hero, a legend, and even “the world’s most passionate lover.” Now, at the age of 130, Diego the tortoise — the once-famed “sex addict” who helped save his entire species from extinction — is officially retiring from his decades-long breeding mission after fathering more than 800 babies.
The giant tortoise, a member of the endangered Chelonoidis hoodensis species native to the Galápagos Islands, was single-handedly credited with repopulating his kind after being brought into a conservation program in the 1970s. At the time, fewer than 15 individuals of his species were left on Earth — now, thanks largely to Diego’s tireless efforts, their numbers have soared into the thousands.
“He practically repopulated an entire species on his own,” said park ranger Washington Tapia of Galápagos Conservancy. “His libido literally changed the future of the Galápagos.”
“At 130 years old, Diego the tortoise has officially retired after fathering 800+ offspring — saving his species in the process.” @Reuters
Diego, who spent much of his life at the San Diego Zoo before being flown back to his native island of Española in 1977, became a global symbol of survival and virility. His unmatched mating drive earned him international fame, with scientists describing him as “hyper-social, extremely dominant, and unusually active” compared to other tortoises, who often mate only once a year.
“While most tortoises are slow in every sense of the word, Diego was a lover with purpose,” said researcher Dr. Adán Cruz. “He changed the trajectory of his species with sheer stamina.”
His story began in the early 20th century, when he was taken from the Galápagos and sent to the United States for study. Decades later, when conservationists realized his species was on the brink of extinction, Diego was brought home to help — and he didn’t disappoint. Scientists say his mating success rate was so high that they could trace nearly 40% of the new population’s DNA back to him.
“He was relentless,” said wildlife biologist Patricia Jaramillo. “Day or night, Diego was ready. If there was a female nearby, he made sure the population grew.”
“From near extinction to thriving again — meet Diego, the tortoise whose libido saved his species.” @guardian
When the breeding program ended, officials decided to retire the now-elderly tortoise to his natural habitat, where he can finally live out his remaining years in peace. He was carried by boat to Española Island, accompanied by park rangers and a small crowd of scientists who cheered as he took his first slow, steady steps back onto the sand.
“He walked out of the crate, looked around like he owned the place — and in a way, he does,” Tapia joked. “Every tortoise you see here is basically one of his descendants.”
Photos of Diego’s homecoming quickly flooded Instagram and X, with fans around the world celebrating his retirement. “He worked harder than any of us ever will,” one user tweeted. “Give that man — or tortoise — a medal.” Another wrote, “He didn’t just save a species. He redefined what it means to leave a legacy.”
Even celebrities joined in the praise. Actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson posted, “Respect to Diego. A real alpha. Legend.” Environmentalist Greta Thunberg called his story “a perfect example of why every individual matters in conservation.”
Over the years, Diego became a key figure in documentaries and conservation campaigns. His face appeared on murals, postage stamps, and even a limited-edition Nike sneaker design celebrating environmental heroes. Scientists say his contribution will echo through generations — literally.
“His genes are strong, diverse, and vital for the long-term survival of his species,” said evolutionary biologist Dr. Marta Álvarez of UNESCO. “Diego’s work ensured the Chelonoidis hoodensis will thrive for centuries. Few humans can claim a legacy that profound.”
“He fathered 800+ tortoises, saved his species, and now gets to nap forever — a true hero.” @nowthisnews
Park officials say Diego will spend the rest of his life in a protected area of Española Island, surrounded by his descendants — many of whom are now parents themselves. “He’ll still be able to mate if he chooses to,” said Cruz with a laugh, “but we’re letting him take it easy now. He’s earned it.”
For conservationists, Diego’s story is both inspiring and cautionary. “He represents what happens when humans intervene the right way,” said NPR correspondent Maria Andrade. “We took an almost-extinct animal and gave him a second chance — and he took it to heart.”
As Diego roams the volcanic terrain where his ancestors once lived, scientists say his retirement marks the end of an extraordinary chapter in wildlife history. “He started as a forgotten zoo tortoise,” one ranger said, “and ended as the father of a nation.”
Asked how long he might live, experts say Galápagos tortoises can reach up to 180 years — meaning Diego could still have decades left. “He’s in great health,” Jaramillo confirmed. “He might still have a few surprises left in him.”
As one viral post put it best: “While the rest of us are out here swiping on dating apps, Diego saved an entire species. That’s what you call dedication.”
