Marta The Alligator: Europe’s Oldest Zoo Resident Celebrates 95 Years
In a remarkable celebration of longevity and companionship, Marta the alligator has reached a milestone that most animals never see. This Saturday, she will be honored at Płock Zoo in Poland, where she has resided since 1960, marking her 95th birthday as Europe’s oldest known zoo animal.
Płock Zoo is pulling out all the stops for this momentous occasion with a festive program featuring art workshops, reptile-themed games, and even a cake fashioned to resemble Marta herself. Excitingly, a live feeding demonstration of this senior celebrity, often referred to as the zoo's star, will also take place, delighting visitors who’ve followed her journey over the decades.
Marta was hatched in 1930 in Slidell, Louisiana, and her journey to Poland began when a Polish-American engineer, Tadeusz Wągrowski, brought her over as part of a unique initiative called the “Crocodile Campaign.” This campaign sought to foster connections between Polish citizens and those living abroad through the donation of books to the Polish diaspora. Initially purchased alone, Marta's new companion, a male alligator named Pedro, was acquired shortly thereafter to prevent her from feeling lonely. Unfortunately, the two never formed a bond, leading to Pedro's transfer to Wrocław Zoo.
Throughout her life, Marta has been a true emblem of resilience. She gained national fame in Poland after appearing in the cult television comedy "Hydrozagadka" in 1970, further endearing herself to the public. Zoo spokeswoman Magda Kowalkowska recalled one frightening moment during filming: "There was a fear that Marta would choose freedom and stay in the waters where production was taking place, but luckily, everything ended well."
Despite the challenges of aging, Marta remains a gentle presence. According to staff, she has slowed but is very calm and accepting of her caregivers, enjoying a diet of beef and freshwater fish once a week. Most remarkably, she has significantly outlived the average lifespan of her species, the Mississippi alligator, which typically reaches around 70 years in captivity. Her life at the zoo has allowed her to grow up to an impressive length of 3 to 6 meters, weighing close to 300 kg, thriving in a habitat that now includes upgraded features for her comfort and the enjoyment of zoo visitors.
As we reflect on Marta’s legacy, her story prompts us to consider the role of zoos in conservation and the emotional connections we can form with other species. What reflections does Marta’s story evoke in you? We invite you to share your thoughts on this ancient alligator who has captivated hearts for nearly a century!