A tortoise is being cared for by an animal welfare charity after it was found dumped in a box next to cardboard recycling bins in Fife.
The abandoned creature was found on Monday by a member of the public outside Asda, at Halbeath Road Retail Park in Dunfermline.
The Scottish SPCA was called out to collect the tortoise, which was described as being “very cold”, with staff unsure how long it had been left there for.
It has now been taken to the rescue centre in Edinburgh.
Scottish SPCA inspector Stephanie Ross said: “We’re not sure how long the tortoise had been left there.
“He was spotted at the Asda cardboard recycling point by a member of the public … in a box, very cold but still alive.
“We are thankful to the member of the public for finding the tortoise – if he hadn’t been found then he might have accidentally been put in one of the recycling bins.”
She added: “He is now being provided with the care he needs in the safety of our Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre in Edinburgh.
“We are keen to trace the owner of the tortoise. If anyone has any information, we would urge them to phone our animal helpline on 03000 999 999.
“All calls can be treated confidentially.”
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