It’s easy to understand why we’re drawn to tortoises. They’re slow-moving, quiet little creatures with a kind of ancient charm – and let’s be honest, they look really cute! So when we see one crossing a road or sitting near a path, our first instinct is often to “rescue” it or pick it up.
But before you do, there are some important things to know.
SAFETY FIRST: Make sure the road is clear. The safety of yourself and other road users is the most important thing. Don’t’ cause a traffic accident.
PICKING UP THE TORTOISE. If there is a need to pick up the tortoise carefully with both hands on either side of the shell. It is very important that the tortoise is kept level so its vital water reserve is not spilled.
DO YOU KNOW THAT TORTOISES DO NOT DRINK WATER? They only receive hydration from the plants they eat, they store water in their shells, and when you hold a tortoise at an angle, the water reserve is spilled out and this can cause them to die of dehydration – especially in hot summer months.
Carrying! Holding the tortoise level, carefully carry him/her to side of the road in the same direction it was travelling and gently put him/her down, still holding him/her straight and not at an angle.
FUN FACT: if you pick up a tortoise in the wrong way you may see/feel liquid coming out of them. This fluid is a mixture of urine and water that they store in their shells. Do not pick up a tortoise unnecessarily, as they can die of dehydration.
The most common tortoise in the Overstrand is the Angulate Tortoise (Chersina angulata) Tortoise are protected and you may not collect them from the wild, or keep a tortoise without a valid permit.
STRESS KILLS: As with most wildlife, stress is very dangerous and can result in their death. Do not pick up tortoises or move them unless they are in immediate danger.
TORTOISES ARE NOT TOYS: Hold the tortoise level, as shown in the picture, to ensure that it doesn’t lose its water reserve. Only pick up a tortoise if it is absolutely necessary to ensure its safety. Don’t allow children to pick up tortoises unnecessarily.
Issued by:
Overstrand Municipal Manager, Dean O’Neill