BROWNSVILLE – An endangered tortoise is back at the Gladys Porter Zoo after being missing for almost a week.

Police say someone stole the endangered reptile last Wednesday from the zoo.

The man who allegedly took the tortoise, Julio Cesar Marroquin has been charged with theft.

"It's a critically endangered species of tortoise native to Madagascar,” says keeper of reptile and amphibians Ashley Ortega.

Marroquin allegedly fled a hit-and-run incident on Tuesday, which led to his theft arrest as well.

The tortoise was microchipped and police say they were already working on tracking him down.

Authorities have not specified exactly how the tortoise was stolen.

The Gladys Porter Zoo is now working on adding additional cameras and security to ensure safety.

If convicted, the accused thief faces up to two years in jail.

For more information watch the video above.