In a recent incident near Picacho, Arizona, a large desert tortoise made a daring attempt to cross Interstate 10, sparking a rescue operation by the state Department of Public Safety. The tortoise, identified as a sulcata tortoise, was spotted by a vigilant motorist on July 30 as it ventured onto the busy highway located between Casa Grande and Tucson in Pinal County.
Concerned for the tortoise's safety, the motorist promptly alerted authorities, leading to the intervention of DPS Sgt. Steven Sekrecki. With combined efforts, they successfully guided the tortoise off the roadway, ensuring its well-being.
Upon closer inspection, it was discovered that the tortoise bore the name “Stitch” on its shell. Troopers took the initiative to contact a nearby ostrich ranch, located just 3 miles away, to ascertain the tortoise's origins.
Subsequent inquiries revealed that Stitch was indeed a resident tortoise at the ostrich ranch and had recently managed to escape from its habitat. The Arizona Republic reported that Stitch was safely returned to the ranch, bringing a happy conclusion to the tortoise's unexpected highway adventure.
