Published: Wednesday, 21st July, 2010 11:20am

SSPCA seeks owners of runaway tortoise

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The stray tortoise - nicknamed Clover - was found in Alloa and is now being cared for by the SSPCA.

A runaway tortoise found straying in the Woodlea Park area of Alloa is being cared for by the Scottish SPCA.

But staff at the charity's Edinburgh and Lothians Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre are hoping to reunite the stray pet with its owner.

The SSPCA believes the tortoise may have escaped as a result of recent warm weather, with the owner perhaps having left it out in the garden to enjoy the sunshine and some exercise.

The small male Horsefield tortoise, nicknamed Clover, was found straying on 18 June.

Senior animal care assistant Lora Booth said, "We are seeing a lot of stray pet birds and tortoises coming into our care at the moment and we think it's due to their owners letting them out for some exercise during the warm weather.

"Pet birds are often let out of their cages to fly around indoors, but if a window or door has been left open then they'll easily escape.

"Likewise, with tortoises, owners may be letting them out into the garden to enjoy the sunshine and some exercise, but they are surprisingly agile and can easily dig their way under a fence or find a gap in a hedge.

"This tortoise is in good health and condition so we're pretty sure its owner is missing it.

"We're inviting anyone whose pet tortoise has recently gone missing to give our animal helpline a call on 03000 999 999. If no one comes forward then we'll be seeking a good home for it."