Phoenix Neighborhood Helps Locate Owner of Escaped Sulcata Tortoise

A large sulcata tortoise escaped from temporary housing in a Phoenix-area neighborhood and was found walking along a sidewalk one recent spring evening. Neighbors gathered around the animal after a five-year-old girl spotted it during dinner. One resident provided lettuce while others posted notices on Facebook and Nextdoor asking for information about the tortoise's owner.

Sulcata tortoises can grow to weigh 200 pounds and live up to 150 years. They require large outdoor enclosures, access to water, and dry shelter during winter months. Dan Marchand, founder of the Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary, said many buyers do not receive adequate information about the animals' long-term needs when purchasing them at reptile shows.

The tortoise was moved to Sara Westfall's backyard where the family provided hay, a shallow pool, and allowed it to graze. " After five days, the owner contacted the family. Frank Boxberger had purchased the tortoise approximately 15 years earlier at a San Diego pet store and had temporarily placed it at his mother's home, which was for sale.

Garret Beshey, a plumber working at the property, agreed to take the tortoise permanently. He removed the animal from oleander bushes and loaded it into his truck for transport to his home.