The scorching heatwave gripping Guernsey has unleashed a peculiar problem: an explosion of escaped tortoises roaming free on the island. The GSPCA, responsible for reuniting lost pets with their owners, has taken in four tortoises within a 24-hour period alone on Thursday, with two already back with their relieved owners.
According to Steve Byrne, Manager at the GSPCA, this surge in escaped tortoise numbers is all too predictable. Normally, they assist with around 20-30 lost or escaped tortoises annually – but these figures tend to skyrocket during prolonged heatwaves. It's not hard to see why: as temperatures soar, tortoises become more active and adventurous, using their surprising climbing skills to escape from their enclosures.
With the Met Office forecasting highs of 37C for Guernsey before a predicted thunderstorm hits, it's little wonder these ancient creatures are making a break for it. Male tortoises, in particular, become more active and mobile during warmer months as they seek out mates – adding to their ability to evade capture.
As the heatwave shows no signs of abating, the GSPCA is urging tortoise owners to remain vigilant and inspect their garden fences and boundaries regularly. Microchipping pets could also be a game-changer in reuniting lost animals with their owners – a prospect that's becoming increasingly likely as more tortoises are discovered on Guernsey's streets.