Critically Endangered Tortoises Stolen From Indianapolis Zoo Found Safe in Madison County

Two critically endangered tortoises, an Egyptian tortoise and a Northern Spider tortoise, stolen from the Indianapolis Zoo between October 11 and 12, were found safe and uninjured in Falls Park, Pendleton, Indiana, after being left in an unattended cardboard box with a note referencing the zoo. The tortoises, both microchipped, were recovered following a tip from park visitors who discovered them and alerted local authorities. Multiple agencies, including the Indiana State Police, Pendleton Police Department, FBI, USDA Office of Inspector General, and the Indianapolis Zoo, are involved in the ongoing investigation. The theft has raised concerns due to the species' critically endangered status, attributed mainly to the pet trade and poaching. The zoo initially reported the loss during a routine morning count on October 12, with the theft believed to have occurred while the tortoises were housed in a desert exhibit vulnerable to theft. Authorities continue to seek information from the public to assist in their investigation.