Timothy the tortoise arrives at Powderham Castle (1892)

Timothy, a Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise, arrived at Powderham Castle in 1892 after serving as a naval mascot. Taken in by the Earl of Devon, she resided at the estate until her death in 2004, estimated to be 160 years old.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Timothy was a female Mediterranean spur-thighed tortoise, born around 1844. Despite her name, sex identification for tortoises was not properly known in the 19th century. She weighed 5 kg and served as a mascot on various navy vessels until 1892, when she retired to live on dry land.

Arrival at Powderham Castle. After her naval service ended in 1892, Timothy was taken in by the Earl of Devon at his home, Powderham Castle. The castle is a fortified manor house in Devon, situated on the west bank of the River Exe estuary, serving as the seat of the Courtenay family.

Long Residence. Timothy lived at Powderham Castle for over a century. From 1935, she resided in the castle's rose garden. She was owned by Camilla Gabrielle Courtenay, the daughter of the 16th Earl of Devon. Timothy died on 3 April 2004, estimated to be about 160 years old.

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Sources

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