Limpopo, South Africa (March 31, 2025) — A Leopard Tortoise, named Blue, has been rescued by the Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation after suffering from harmful paint that was applied to his shell. The tortoise is now under the foundation’s care, where he is receiving specialized treatment to restore his health and wellbeing.
Leopard Tortoises, native to Africa, often face threats that lead them away from their natural habitats. Many are captured for the illegal wildlife trade or kept in captivity by traditional healers. Blue’s case is no exception. The tortoise was found in the yard of a Sangoma, a traditional healer, who had painted Blue, likely as a means of identification.
The Leopard Tortoise is one of the largest species on the African continent and is known for its longevity and resilience. These traits have made it a symbol of strength, which is particularly fitting for Blue, who has endured significant hardship.
Carina Crayton, co-founder of the Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation, explained the dangers of painting a tortoise’s shell. “A tortoise’s shell is more than just armor; it’s part of their skeletal system, with their ribs and spine fused to it,” Carina said. “The shell is porous, which allows tortoises to absorb moisture—essential for their survival, especially in arid regions. Painting it can block this natural process, preventing the absorption of moisture, sunlight, and key nutrients like Vitamin D and calcium.”
Thanks to the quick actions of Loraine Botha and Martin van der Breggen, who rescued Blue and transported him to the foundation’s rehabilitation facility, the tortoise now has a chance for a full recovery. Upon arrival, the team began stabilizing Blue and initiated the painstaking process of removing the harmful paint.
Carina emphasized that the process would be challenging and stressful for Blue but is necessary for his long-term health. “We are using a specialized, non-toxic, organic product to carefully lift the paint from his shell,” she explained.
While the road to recovery may be slow, the Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation remains committed to restoring Blue to full health, giving him the opportunity to live out his natural life free from harm.
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