Texas Fire Department Helps Relocate Giant Tortoise Inside Ahead Of Arctic Freeze

A 24-year-old sulcata tortoise named Jack is riding out this cold snap inside thanks to a Texas fire department. 

Ahead of the snow and freezing temperatures forecasted for much of the South this week, Jack’s owner Lauren knew she had to get him inside her College Station house. There was a problem though: Jack weighs about 150 pounds.

Fortunately, the College Station Fire Department was up to the task.

The fire department shared photos of the reptile rescue mission on Facebook Monday, which appears to have involved hoisting Jack into a garbage bin with wheels for easier transport.

“Helping Jack the tortoise move inside to get out of the snow,” the caption reads.

The College Station Fire Department used the opportunity to share some interesting information about tortoises.

“A typical adult male tortoise measures about 24-30 inches long, and weighs in at 70-120 pounds,” the department wrote alongside the photos. “Female tortoises are usually 20-24 inches long and weigh 65-75 pounds!”

 Lauren thanked first responders for their help and offered an update on her giant pet on Twitter.

“We’re so thankful for y’all!!!” she wrote. “He’s very happy inside!”

Good work, y’all!