My Tortoise Thinks He's a Dog. . .(he comes when you call him)

Meet Seven. He's an eight year old male Sulcata tortoise that weighs about eighty pounds. He has been in our family for about a year and a half now, and has completely changed my perception of reptiles. Prior to Seven, I viewed reptilian intelligence as more akin to insect intelligence, as opposed to that of dogs, cats, or other warm-blooded creatures.

However, shortly after he began living in my back yard, I noticed that he could discriminate between me and my wife. Although I spent more time in the yard with him, he generally ignored me. My wife, who eschewed my "leave him to graze" philosophy, would bring him treats (apples, watermelon slices, etc.) whenever she went out back. As a result, her voice would bring him running (and he moves surprisingly fast.) With just a little training, he now comes when I call him, and my mind is reeling with the potential tricks he is likely capable of learning. Check out the video: