Annan tortoise among spate of escapes

Tortoise owners have been warned to be on their guard after a spate of escapes in the recent warm weather.

The Scottish SPCA said there had been several incidents recently due to people letting their pets out into the garden to get some exercise.

The latest missing tortoise was spotted crossing the B722 between Annan and Ecclefechan in southern Scotland.

The escapee - named Whizz - is now recovering at the charity's Dunragit Kennels near Stranraer.

Animal Rescue Officer Tracy Cannon said: "Whizz could easily have been hit by a car so it's lucky that the motorist who spotted him was able to slow down and pull over.

"We think Whizz is a Hermann's tortoise and we're sure someone somewhere will be missing their pet."

She said it was the latest in a number of incidents.

"Several stray tortoises have been rescued by us from various locations across the country over the last few days due to the warm weather," she said.

"Their owners have been letting them out into the garden for some exercise and sun bathing and they have escaped under fences and through gates.

"It's quite surprising how quickly a tortoise can move."

Anyone who thinks they might know who owns Whizz has been asked to contact the Scottish SPCA.