The Great Escape — Turtle Found 5 Miles Away From Home After Going Missing For 3 Years
Stories about animal escapes often involve daring runs through bustling streets or quick dashes from wildlife enclosures. However, one remarkable tortoise took a much slower yet determined approach to freedom.
In 2020, a 60-pound African tortoise embarked on an extraordinary journey, leaving its home and family behind in search of something unknown. Unlike most animal escapees, this slow-moving reptile managed to evade capture for over three years before it was finally discovered crossing a busy highway in Florida.
Tortoises, known for their patience and resilience, are not commonly considered long-distance travelers. But this one, after being on the run for three and a half years, was found in October 2023 by the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office.
They spotted the tortoise leisurely attempting to cross State Road 20 in Interlachen, Florida, around 60 miles southwest of Jacksonville (Putnam County Sheriff’s Office). This wasn't just any tortoise, though. It quickly became apparent that this particular wanderer was fond of humans and enjoyed a friendly head pat. This personality trait and its unique story made it a memorable encounter for everyone involved.
After its capture, the tortoise was safely handed over to Florida’s Wildest Animal Refuge. This sanctuary is home to various rescued wildlife, and the team there was thrilled to help (Florida's Wildest Animal Rescue). Despite being a species native to the desert regions of Africa, this adventurous tortoise survived several cold winters in North Florida.
African tortoises, which typically inhabit the southern edge of the Sahara Desert, are more accustomed to warm, dry climates. The fact that this tortoise could thrive in such different conditions speaks to its toughness and adaptability.
The Putnam County Sheriff’s Office took action on October 21st.
It was clear from the start that this tortoise was unlike any other.
This tortoise's journey is even more surprising because it is close to home. Despite its multi-year adventure, the tortoise was found only five miles from where it had escaped in 2020.
The reunion with its family, which occurred shortly after its capture, was heartwarming. The tortoise’s owners had been searching for their beloved pet since its escape, never giving up hope.
They even posted about its disappearance on social media in 2020, asking for help in finding it. Their dedication paid off as the sheriff's office post went viral and reached someone who remembered the tortoise's original escape story.
If the family hadn’t been found, the animal refuge was prepared to offer the adventurous tortoise a forever home, ensuring its safety and well-being.
According to Dr. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi, a leading researcher on happiness and flow, the journey of the tortoise illustrates a principle of intrinsic motivation. His studies show that when animals engage in activities that satisfy their natural instincts, they experience a state of flow, making them happier and less likely to seek escape.
To improve the living conditions for pets, owners should focus on creating a stimulating environment that encourages exploration and play. Providing a variety of toys and opportunities for mental engagement can help reduce the urge to wander away.
This one liked being around people and surprisingly enjoyed a good head pat.
Dr. John Gray, renowned relationship author, emphasizes that just like humans, animals also have their own motivations and desires, which can lead them to embark on unexpected journeys. His work highlights the importance of understanding these motivations, as they can often be misunderstood by their human caretakers.
In the case of the tortoise, it may have been searching for better living conditions or simply exploring its surroundings, a behavior observed in various animal species. Understanding these needs can help pet owners create more enriching environments that prevent escapes.
African tortoises like this one are gentle giants, capable of living up to 150 years and growing to an impressive 230 pounds. They primarily feed on weeds, grasses, and flowers, making Florida’s abundant greenery a paradise.
It's pretty remarkable to see just how far the tortoise got—or rather, how far it didn’t.
Moving at a leisurely 1.6 miles per year was taking the long way around.
The owner posted about the tortoise's escape on social media in 2020, noting it had been part of the family since it hatched.
Dr. Tara Brach, a psychologist and meditation teacher, notes that animals often exhibit behaviors that stem from deeper instincts and needs. The tortoise's three-year adventure serves as a reminder of the importance of providing adequate stimulation and environment for pets.
She suggests that pet owners consider incorporating natural elements into the environment, such as plants and hiding spots, which can satisfy an animal's exploratory instincts. This approach not only enhances their well-being but also minimizes the likelihood of wandering off.
“We haven’t given up looking.”
"175 Pound Tortoise Is The King Of His Household"
This tortoise’s story is more than just a quirky tale of escape. It’s about persistence, survival, and a bit of mystery. It roamed for over three years, managing to live through conditions far from its native desert habitat.
The fact that it stayed relatively close to home yet remained hidden adds an almost ironic twist to its adventure. It wasn’t about reaching a far-off destination but the journey itself.
The reunion with its family, sparked by community effort and online connections, shows how the ties we form with animals can endure even in the most unusual circumstances.
The story of the tortoise's remarkable journey underlines the importance of understanding animal behavior and needs. Experts like Dr. John Gray and Dr. Tara Brach highlight that pets require environments that cater to their instincts, fostering happiness and reducing escape tendencies. By creating spaces that include natural elements and engaging activities, pet owners can significantly enhance their pets' quality of life. Therefore, it's crucial to observe and understand the motivations behind animal behavior, ensuring a fulfilling and secure environment for our beloved companions.
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