An African spurred tortoise, the largest mainland species of tortoise in the world, was found dead near a canal in Koekelare, in the province of West Flanders, on Saturday.
Reptile shelter SOS Reptiel received a report from the police of Koekelare who spotted the creature lying along the road on Saturday. Upon the team's arrival to the scene where the tortoise, whose species usually lives in Africa, was found, it could only ascertain its death.
"Unfortunately, the animal was already deceased. A hiker had seen the animal lying in the ditch and put it on dry land, hoping to save it, but this effort was in vain," SOS Reptiel announced on social media.
Credit: SOS Reptiel
The shelter added that the animal was most likely dumped, but added that it is unsure whether it was left behind dead or alive.
"Was the energy bill to take care of the animal too high? Was it getting too big? Or was the owner simply fed up with the animal? We will probably never know," the organisation said.
While an escape is possible, it seems unlikely that such an animal would get very far with the current temperatures, especially as it was found far away from a populated area.
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SOS Reptiel has urged people who are experiencing problems with their pets to report any issues. "We will try to help you as much as we can. While we cannot guarantee we can provide shelter, as our services are overwhelmed, we may still be able to help with necessary advice and give you the resources and knowledge to take on your responsibility."
