So in Zambia, Africa, tortoises are being used to deliver warning messages.

Dogs and birds, too. Of course we all know about the place the carrier pigeon has in history, but who knew that chelonians were equally suited for the job?

In one recent instance, a tortoise carried a message to a magistrate (judge) who had just incarcerated two prisoners. The message suggested that the prisoners be released, as they have unfinished problems to resolve, or else the magistrate himself would have to tend to the trouble. The end the letter signed off, "If you want to talk to us reply through the same channel." Would that be the carrier tortoise channel?

This opens up my imagination to unlimited possibilities. On what errands might I send my tortoises? I wonder if they could handle my late-night Walgreen's candy runs?

Maybe I'll start by sending Scooter next door to deliver my neighbor's mis-delivered mail.

Zambia: Tortoise Delivers Letter to Magistrate
Zambia: Copperbelt Tortoise Shocker!

Disclaimer: With this post I am not criticizing another culture, their beliefs or superstitions. I am merely commenting on an occurrence that would not have happened the same way in my own culture.