Zoo Knoxville mourns the loss of Tex the tortoise

The same year Zoo Knoxville’s Tex the tortoise was born, the Civil War came to an end and a new blasting product called dynamite was invented.

The reptile that staff members said loved the attention from visitors passed away on Tuesday at the age of 160.

Tex became the property’s oldest resident when he was delivered to Knoxville in 1995. He reportedly loved neck rubs and his exhibit mate Al had to be moved to another enclosure after he became more aggressive when a female was brought to the collection in 2011.

A statement from Zoo Knoxville said Tex was one of their shining stars and was part of the zoo’s conservation efforts. 

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(GRAPHIC: Property of Zoo Knoxville / Official Facebook)