Modesto tortoise Sherman becomes a social media sensation with local adventures
By Karson Wells
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MODESTO, California (KCRA) — Sherman, an 11-year-old sulcata tortoise from Modesto, has become a social media star as his owner documents their adventures around town, bringing joy to people everywhere.
Sherman’s owner, Wilson Tsai, adopted him from a local rescue just over a year ago.
“We absolutely fell in love with him,” Tsai said.
Sherman’s personality has made him a favorite among locals.
“He is very outgoing. He doesn’t shy around in the presence of people, and that’s what makes everyone just absolutely fall in love with him. Every single encounter he has with people, with kids, it’s always the same. Pure joy, laughter,” Tsai said.
Sherman’s adventures began after he escaped from Tsai’s backyard multiple times.
“All three times he’s done that, he’s always headed to the park because he remembers where it is,” Tsai said.
Now, Tsai is committed to showing Sherman more of the world.
“Everywhere we go, he’s treated like a celebrity. People drop everything they’re doing just to take pictures of him,” Tsai said.
To share Sherman’s charm with a wider audience, Tsai started documenting their outings on Instagram. “It’s an absolute pleasure bringing this kind of happiness to people everywhere. That’s why we record it and put it on social media for the rest of the world to also enjoy,” Tsai said.
Sherman, who weighs 70 pounds, is still young for a tortoise and could live up to 100 years and grow to 200 pounds. “He will definitely outlive me, maybe my kids, so you have to have a very long contingency plan,” Tsai said.
Tsai takes Sherman on daily walks, and their trips have expanded from local parks to places like stores and even a Spirit Halloween shop in Modesto.
Sherman’s adventures, which include rides on BART and visits to various locations, continue to bring smiles to those who meet him.
“It’s an absolute pleasure bringing this kind of happiness to people everywhere. That’s why we record it and put it on social media for the rest of the world to also enjoy,” Tsai said.
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