Thank You Hermanus Animal Hospital and WCC
If tortoises could speak, that would certainly have been the sentiments expressed by a female Angulate Tortoise, now feeling much better.
When Daphne and Bruce Beyer were recently doing a survey of tortoises in the Fisherhaven area, they found a female tortoise, approximately 10 years old that looked very lethargic. They identify individual tortoises by the patterns on the underside of the shell, so they turned her over to photograph the belly. This is when Daphne noticed that there seemed to be an egg stuck in the cloaca. She carefully replaced the tortoise but continued to monitor her for 2 days. This was not too difficult as she wasn’t moving around much. When it became clear that the egg was well and truly stuck, they became worried for the health of the mama.
Daphne called Whale Coast Conservation to find out what they should do. Normally wildlife may not be transported without a permit from CapeNature, but since this was a medical emergency she was advised to take the tortoise to Dr Mark Walton at Hermanus Animal Hospital. Whale Coast Conservation would cover any veterinary costs through their recently established Wildlife Medical Fund.
The story had a happy ending. Daphne duly delivered the tortoise to Dr Mark, he delivered her of an exceptionally large egg with a double yolk, and Daphne returned a much happier tortoise back to where she was found.
The next day Daphne made a house call to mama tortoise with a gift of some succulent leaves, which were quickly consumed.
This happy outcome is exactly what is envisaged by the Whale Coast Conservation Wildlife Medical Fund. The fund was established with an initial donation from Hermanus Animal Welfare. Members of the public are encouraged to take injured or sick wildlife for veterinary treatment to Hermanus Animal Hospital in the knowledge that expenses will be covered. However, please make sure that the animal is actually in need of assistance before needlessly disturbing it and that it’s a species that’s worth saving. Baby birds should not be picked up unless they are obviously in danger. Their parents usually know where they are and will continue to feed them. If you are uncertain of what to do, please SMS or WhatsApp 083 242 3295.
We appeal to the public to support this fund so that we are able to assist more injured or sick wildlife. Donations to the fund can be made on the website project page.