Update
MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The Garden Route SPCA Mossel Bay branch has said the leopard tortoise that was reported missing during last week's fire, has been found.
The SPCA had posted to its Facebook page this morning, 12 January, appealing to the public for urgent assistance in tracing the leopard tortoise.
It said that last Wednesday, 7 January, the tortoise was handed over to a man and woman, who said they were assisting with wildlife rescue and that the animal would be taken directly to the Mossel Bay SPCA however, by this morning, the SPCA said it had not been brought in.
The tortoise is a long-term resident of a farm in Alwyndaal.
The SPCA said in its most recent Facebook post today that it had confirmed that a kind lady who rescued several tortoises during the wildfires ensured that this tortoise was released close to its home area, safely back into the wild.
"He was released near a dam, in an area with an abundant natural food supply. At this stage, we are hopeful that he will make his way back to his home range," said the SPCA.
"Leopard tortoises move slowly, and this process can take time, but he has been released in a suitable habitat where he can continue his natural journey safely."
The SPCA said it was overwhelmed by the kindness of community members who stepped in to assist wildlife in need during last week's fires.
"We would like to sincerely thank every volunteer who helped us during this time," it said.
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