A lost tortoise has been found five miles from her home – nearly four years after vanishing.
The runaway reptile was picked up in the street by the cops.
Local police officers found the African spurred tortoise (Centrochelys sulcata) in the town of Interlachen, Florida, US, on 21 October.
They took the lost animal to the non-profit animal refuge Florida’s Wildest Animal Rescue in Putnam County.
Volunteers posted about the reptile on social media and quickly received hundreds of replies from the public.
They were made aware of a tortoise that was reported as missing in the same area back in April 2020.
A refuge spokesperson said: “A truly unbelievable story, it just goes to show you to never give up hope!
“One of our followers sent us a post from April 2020 of a sulcata tortoise that looked similar.
“I was able to compare photos I took to the original post, and it turns out it was the same tortoise!
“She was missing for 3½ years and was found five miles away from where she originally escaped.
“She is in a little bit of rough shape from spending so many cold winters here without heat, but she will be okay.
“We recommended a trip to the vet.”
The female tortoise, named Ty, was then reunited with her shocked owner, Dagmar.
Florida’s Wildest Animal Rescue said: “What a happy ending!
“We are so happy we were able to assist in reuniting her with her family.”
One local commented: “Wow that’s a long time to be missing, so glad they’ve been reunited!”
Barbara said: “Miracles do happen! So happy she is back home.”
Jamie remarked: “A beautiful story and happy outcome.”
Judy wrote: “Omg thanks so much for this post. With all the crazy stuff going on in the world today, it’s great to see happy stories.”
Jill commented: “Oh if only she could share her adventures with us. Bet she has some great stories to tell.”
