Endangered Tortoise Reunited With Family After Three Years On The Run

Police officers ensure safe return of African Sulcata tortoise found crossing a highway in Florida; owners had lost the pet in 2020 and it was noted to be in rough shape after enduring periods of cold without heat.

Putnam County deputies discovered a lost African Sulcata tortoise attempting to cross a highway in Florida. The tortoise was identified as a pet missing since April 2020.
The tortoise is known as an 'escape artist,' famed for the species' ability to dig out of their enclosures. Despite escaping, she traveled just five miles away from her home.
The missing pet was recognized through distinctive markings on her shell, which was noticed in a widely shared social media post by the police officers in hopes to find the owner.
Upon finding, the tortoise was in rough shape, suffering from the cold without proper heat and showing signs of shell rot and missing spurs on her legs.
Florida's Wildest Animal Rescue, which helped identify and care for the tortoise, suggested a veterinary visit and expressed optimism about her recovery.