Tortoise stolen from Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World found

A TORTOISE stolen from a Midlothian wildlife centre has been found.

Huck, an eight-year-old red footed tortoise, was taken from Edinburgh Butterfly and Insect World on February 21.

He was found by members of the public in a grassy area in Muirhouse last week.

Lyndsey Paget, one of Huck’s keepers, said: “We’re so happy to have Huck back home with us at Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World. We really missed him and so did our visitors.

“Everyone has been absolutely overjoyed to hear that he is safe and sound.”

The Scottish SPCA was called to collect Huck after he was found on Friday.

Scottish SPCA centre manager Diane Aitchison recognised his markings when she picked him up, having seen the media coverage from when he was stolen.

She contacted staff at Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World who were able to identify him through pictures and Huck was collected that afternoon.

Scottish SSPCA animal rescue officer, Sarah Auldsmith, said: “We’re so pleased to have helped Huck home.”

Huck was seen by a vet soon after he was discovered who found him safe and well and microchipped him.

He then had a couple of days rest out of the public eye while he settled down and readjusted to his familiar environment at Edinburgh Butterfly & Insect World.

Police are continuing their investigation into the theft of the animal, and are urging anyone who has any information to come forward.

Constable Ian Worrall from Dalkeith Police Station said: “It’s a great relief that Huck has been found and is doing well, however we are still looking to trace those responsible for his theft.

“If anyone can help with this ongoing inquiry then please contact us immediately.”

Those with information can contact Dalkeith Police Station via 101 and quote incident number 1883 of the 21st February.