Two gopher tortoises were spray-painted in the past week, according to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida.
One of the animals' shells was painted hot pink and royal blue.
After being admitted, the Conservancy began the long process of removing paint from their shells. It was noted that the tortoises were in good health.
The Conservancy said the paint has to be removed in small stages throughout the week.
Paint on the shells is problematic because the carapace is bone, which is living tissue.
According to the Conservancy, covering the shell with paint prevents the turtle from absorbing UV light. This can deform the shell and be absorbed into the bloodstream.
There is also the chance of a respiratory infection because of how strong the paint smells.
This means that the tortoise was inhaling the paint fumes.
Both tortoises are living together in the reptile room and receiving care from Conservancy staff.
The animals are being monitored for respiratory infections and the paint on their shells is still in the process of being removed.
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