This month, we’re excited to feature Sam, the adventurous desert tortoise belonging to Nicole Kahn, Indirect Tax Manager at Zoom.

Sam joined Nicole’s family about three years ago after being inherited from her grandfather. Originally short for “Samuel,” the name shifted to Samantha after Sam started laying eggs – an unexpected reveal. Now estimated to be 65–70 years old and about the size of a soccer ball, Sam is believed to be a Sulcata tortoise.

By day, Sam enjoys sunbathing in the grass and snacking on leafy greens, with a particular love for banana and melon. But her true specialty? Escaping the backyard. Despite having only three legs, she’s made several creative breakouts, including one early adventure that ended seven houses down at a neighbor’s lawn.

One fun fact: tortoises hibernate for part of the year, and in Nicole’s experience, Sam settles in from December through February.

Between her escape artistry, impressive speed, and quirky personality, Sam proves that even the slowest pets can keep you on your toes! Welcome to the SALT Pet of the Month family, Sam!