'Racist' Tortoise Goes Viral: TikTok Video Shows Reptile Only Attacking Black Shoes

A tortoise went viral online after a TikTok video shows it attacks only black shoes and not white sneakers. The story sparked an internet debate, contesting whether or not the sensation is a racist tortoise or not but in a humorous manner.

While seem bizarre, the uploader of the clip explained why such behavior was shown by the animal, according to an investigation made by an internet media company.

Tortoises are reptiles belonging to the Family Testudinidae of the Order Testudines. Known for their large size, these animals can protect themselves from predators using their massive shells, just like turtles. However, the difference is that tortoises are land dwellers while turtles can live in bodies of water at certain points in their lives.

Tortoise Attacks Black Shoes

Originally uploaded by YouTuber 'Dan the Turtle Man,' the viral TikTok video was uploaded by the channel Good News Network in August 2022, with a description saying a tortoise is prohibiting people to wear black shoes at their house or face its wrath.

In the short video, it can be seen that the tortoise named Tommy Shellby, who went viral for "hating black shoes" is seen bumping its head on black shoes only for several times even if other white sneakers are present in the same area, according to the clip's caption.

Possible Explanation

In relation to the viral tortoise attacking black shoes, there have been observations in the past that both turtles and tortoises hate one thing in common: black color.

The website Distractify conducted an investigation regarding the viral video, which cited that Dan the Turtle Man in the video said the reason the tortoise is going after black shoes only is because it is a racist.

However, the humorous remark by the owner was discarded by him but quickly clarified the animal was only attacking the black shoe due to the simple fact it was there. He also mentioned that it also likely attacked the darker color shoes since they looked like another turtle.

Possible Theories

In a February 2023 article, the website Turtles Pet acknowledged that turtles attack black shoes. It explained why such behavior persists, laying out several theories as to why they have a tendency for aggressive behavior towards some objects and colors. Despite these explanations, scientists still do not fully understand by this is the case.

According to the site, one theory puts forward that turtles could perceive black shoes or other objects as a possible food source. This is the rationale because the reptiles feed on several dark-colored objects, including dark green leaves and dark-colored fruits.

On the other hand, another theory asserts some turtles' aggressive behavior is based on their territorial nature and become defensive since they probably perceive black or dark colors as a threat to them or their habitat.