Scottish SPCA

Home  >  News

Exotics found in Glasgow

The Scottish SPCA has rescued two exotic creatures found on the loose in Glasgow.

We were first contacted by a resident of Dornal Avenue in Yoker, who spotted a tortoise between two parked cars outside her home on 10 August. The speedy horsefield has been nicknamed Bolt.

Animal Rescue Officer Ashley Griffin said, "We're so glad Bolt was found as he could easily have been injured or even killed if the cars had moved.

"He's a really healthy and happy wee guy so it certainly seems he's a much-loved pet who's decided to go for a wander in the sunshine.

"The street Bolt was found on is part of a large residential area so it's quite possible his owner lives nearby.

"We've rescued lots of stray tortoises this summer, which is probably because they tend to go in search of a mate when the weather heats up.

"They're really good escape artists and much quicker than most people realise.

"Hopefully, Bolt's owner will come forward and we'll be able to return him home safe and sound."

We were then called to rescue a snake found coiled around a lamppost in Govanhill.

A shocked resident of Hollybrook Street alerted us to the rat snake after she spotted it outside her home on 11 August. He has been named Lumiere.

Inspector Jennifer Connolly said, "The woman who alerted us to Lumiere was pretty shaken up by her discovery.

"It's not every day you find a snake outside your house so it's understandable she got a fright.

"Someone else contained Lumiere inside a pillow case until I arrived because the lady wouldn't go near him.

"Despite her shock, we're very glad she called us so we could help Lumiere. Although it was really warm on Saturday, snakes need heat and once the temperature dropped in the evening he wouldn't have survived for long."

Both creatures are now being cared for at our Glasgow Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre at Cardonald.

Anyone who recognises Bolt the tortoise or Lumiere the rat snake is being asked to call our Animal Helpline on 03000 999 999.