Kentucky nature reserve asks for return of missing turtles

LOUISVILLE, Ky. ( FOX 56 ) — The Louisville Nature Center is asking the community to give back two turtles that went missing from their habitat over the weekend.

The Louisville Nature Center (LNC) posted on Facebook Wednesday that a box turtle enclosure at the shelter had been broken into, and two turtles, Chocolate and Jack, were allegedly removed.

“We have no idea why someone would do this,” The Louisville Nature Center said on Wednesday. “Chocolate, pictured, is very special to us. We found him wandering here several years ago, obviously an abandoned pet. He had not been taken care of properly, resulting in deformities that make him unable to dig a hole to hibernate in, and unable to fully retract into his shell for protection. He cannot live on his own in the wild.”

LNC staff said Chocolate had been receiving care at the facility for several years and had become a favorite of visitors, students, and volunteers alike. “He and Jack, another male box turtle, were removed from the enclosure. We are asking for their return, we will not ask any questions, we just want our turtles back!”

A box was set out for Jack and Chocolate at the entrance of the building, according to the nature reserve. “If we find our box turtles in this box, we will ask no questions, no one gets in trouble, and we’ll be happy to be reunited with our beloved turtles,” LNC said.

If you have any information that could help find Chocolate and Jack, the Louisville Nature Center can be reached at (502) 458-1328. To become a volunteer or learn more about the reserve, visit the LNC website .

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