HANAPĒPĒ, Kauaʻi — An unexpected visitor drew the attention of Hanapēpē Heights residents Friday morning, Oct. 30, when a large tortoise was discovered wandering along Ahi Road around 10:30 a.m.
The tortoise, estimated to measure approximately three feet in length, prompted neighbors to gather and assist the animal into the bed of a pickup truck, where it was offered garden greens.
Based on its appearance, the animal may be an African spurred tortoise, also known as a sulcata tortoise, a large species native to Africa that is sometimes kept as a pet.
Resident Hokulea Nakaahiki photographed the animal and shared the sighting on Facebook in hopes of locating its possible owner.
Residents who encounter a large tortoise wandering through a residential neighborhood are encouraged to keep pets and vehicles away, avoid unnecessary handling and contact local animal control for assistance. Moving a large tortoise without proper guidance can put both the animal and residents at risk.
Anyone who recognizes the tortoise or has information about its possible owner is encouraged to contact the Kauaʻi Humane Society or Hokulea Nakaahiki directly on Facebook.