VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – An investigation has kicked off this week after a gopher tortoise was found sprayed in its face and shell with foam insulation, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
The tortoise was discovered near Glenwood Hammock Road in DeLand and transported about an hour away to the Marine Science Center, where staff say quick intervention helped save its life.
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“This is definitely not something we like to see, but I am very happy with the outcome,” said Allie Bernstein, manager of turtle rehabilitation at the center.
She added that the tortoise has since made a full recovery.
In a release on Tuesday, FWC officials told News 6 that investigators had responded to reports of spray insulation being applied to the tortoise.
“This is currently under investigation, and there are no additional details at this time,” the release reads.
Gopher tortoises are considered a threatened species in Florida, making it illegal to harm them or damage their burrows.
Bernstein said she hopes the case serves as a reminder to the public.
“It’s an educational opportunity for the public to realize that it’s not OK to do things like that,” she said.
Sick or injured gopher tortoises can be reported to the FWC by calling (850) 921-1030 weekdays from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Meanwhile, dead tortoises can be reported via the FWC web app here.
Anyone who suspects wildlife violations is urged to contact the FWC Wildlife Alert Hotline at (888) 404-3922.