I'm amazed by the tortoise escape artists, but also hope loving owners would do everything within their power to find their missing pet. The reason why I'm now a member of this forum is because I found my own wondering waif sulcata tortoise that no one has claimed. I found her in a recent snow storm, which could prove members right who said it may have something to do with not housing a tortoise in the winter. However, I believe that many of the "found" tortoises are found astray, because of impulse buys and far too many people these days seem to have the mentality that animals are objects to be traded or discarded after they cease to hold their interest. Based on the health and several physical characteristics of my tort, we're pretty sure she had never stepped out of an aquarium. I'm guessing was released because she had OUTGROWN her aquarium and was proving to have greater needs than the owner was prepared or willing to give. I recently went into my city's corporate petstore and was angry and annoyed to see tortoises on sale with a sign that said "lifespan 20+years" and that is ALL. There was no information on how to house them properly and dietary needs. I also don't feel "20+" years is entirely honest.
As long as our species continues to feel entitled to "owning" what we want...this will continue....in my opinion that is....