Indiana State Police are seeking public help after thieves stole two critically endangered tortoises from Indianapolis Zoo between 10 a.m. October 11 and 10 a.m. on October 12th. The stolen animals include an Egyptian tortoise and a Northern Spider tortoise, both measuring 4 to 5 inches in length. Both species are microchipped, and the Egyptian tortoise has a “prominent scar on its underside.” Zoo senior vice president Jake Oakman said the facility is working “closely with law enforcement to investigate the theft” and “we continue to hope for their safe return and we appreciate the community’s support during this time.” The Egyptian tortoise faces population decline from pet trade demand, while the Northern Spider tortoise is Madagascar’s smallest endemic tortoise species. (Story URL)
