VOLUSIA COUNTY, Fla. – An investigation has kicked off this week after a gopher tortoise was found sprayed in the face with insulation, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
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.
While few details about the investigation have been released thus far, the Marine Science Center explained that officials were able to remove most of the spray insulation just in time to save the animal.
An image of the gopher tortoise before and after the spray insulation was removed (Marine Science Center)
Gopher tortoises are considered a threatened species in Florida, making it illegal to harm them or damage their burrows.
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.
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