Slow and steady does not win the race. This time.
A 150-pound giant tortoise named Dirk managed to escape his home in Alhambra, California, last Saturday. The brave brute's need for speed almost landed him in a police chase, according to the Alhambra Police Department, which wrote on their Facebook page that they "almost had a pursuit."
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Post by Alhambra Police Department.
Two officers were able to lift the massive creature and take him into custody. He was taken to the L.A. County Animal Care and Control in Downey, California before being claimed by his owners.
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Post by Alhambra Police Department.
The BBC reports that Dirk is a specific breed of African tortoise called the sulcata tortoise, which can run up to one mile per hour. According to the local penal code, it is illegal to own such an exotic breed of animal. The Alhambra Police Department decided to make an exception in Dirk's case, saying "we enjoy keeping families together."
Dirk is safe and sound with his owners again, at least until he gets another bout of wanderlust. Ride on, Dirk, you crazy speed demon.
BONUS: 12 Ways to See the World Through Animals' Eyes
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