1 of 2 tortoises with vandalized shell dies

ORLANDO, Fla. — Florida Fish and Wildlife officers have joined the investigation into who painted two gopher tortoises’ shells, which led to the death of one of the animals.

One of the tortoises was found in Blanchard Park, the other in Pine Hills.

They were taken to the Back to Nature Wildlife Refuge in Orlando.

The weaker, older tortoise passed away as a result of an infection and dehydration, likely not related to the permanent market on its shell.

Refuge workers said on the organization's Facebook page that whoever was taking care of the animal before it was found didn't care for it properly.

The other tortoise’s shell was covered in nail polish, which refuge workers are working to remove.

That tortoise was having respiratory issues, likely related to nail polish on its shell.

Workers at the refuge said it can be a long process to clean the shell because they have to be careful not to cause further damage.

The animals use their shells to help them breathe, wildlife experts said.

Gopher tortoises are a protected species in Florida.

WFTV