The Journey of Rex the Tortoise

Rex, a large sulcata tortoise, found himself in the spotlight after wandering down a Phoenix street. His unexpected appearance puzzled neighbors and set off a community effort to locate his owners. Rex’s escape highlighted the challenges of owning these unique pets, which became a subject of humor on Saturday Night Live.

The Sulcata Challenge

Sulcata tortoises, native to Africa, start as small as golf balls. Their attractiveness and small size often tempt people to adopt them without understanding the commitment involved. Dan Marchand from the Phoenix Herpetological Sanctuary notes that these tortoises can grow to be the third-largest in the world, reaching up to 200 pounds. They require spacious outdoor habitats, proper care, and can live for 150 years. However, many buyers receive little information about these needs at reptile shows.

Marchand emphasizes the need for thorough preparation before adopting a sulcata. His sanctuary has become a home to around 700 such tortoises over 20 years, many found wandering or abandoned.

“They’re not destructive by nature, but their size leads them to go through obstacles rather than navigate around them,” Marchand explained.

Meanwhile, Teri Boyungs from Eclecteri Tortoise & Reptile Rescue in Casa Grande reports an influx of sulcatas in Arizona. The local climate supports their reproduction, compounding the issue.

Neighborhood Support

Sara Westfall’s young daughter first spotted Rex, igniting neighborhood curiosity. Initially mistaken for a lawn ornament, Rex turned out to be very real and very large. Neighbors rallied to help, providing food and spreading the word on social media. Eventually, Rex was accommodated in the Westfalls’ backyard, complete with a shallow pool and plenty of grazing opportunities, earning the nickname “Chicken Nugget” from Westfall’s daughter.

Return to Owners

Frank Boxberger purchased Rex about 15 years ago. Previously kept in Boxberger’s Arizona backyard, Rex was beloved by the family and participated in events, such as acting as a “beer tortoise” during Boxberger’s daughter’s wedding. However, the tortoise’s size and strength had become problematic, prompting Rex’s temporary relocation to Boxberger’s mother’s house. He escaped when prospective buyers left the gate open.

After seeing Westfall’s flyer, Boxberger’s daughter made contact. Although Boxberger wanted to rehome Rex, Westfall couldn’t keep him permanently.

New Beginnings

Enter Garret Beshey, a plumber who was familiar with Rex’s temporary home. Beshey had always wanted a sulcata but preferred adoption due to overbreeding concerns. Welcoming Rex into his spacious backyard, Beshey took with him the hay and pool from the Westfalls, considering a new name for Rex, perhaps “Bowser,” inspired by a famous video game character.

The transition was not without challenges. Getting Rex out of some oleander bushes required Beshey’s physical effort. But soon enough, Rex was on his way to his new home, having made quite an impact on those he encountered. As he departed, the Westfalls said their goodbyes to “Chicken Nugget.”