Harrowing footage shows how endangered giant tortoises are kept in filthy conditions at a market in Thailand.

The Aldabra giant tortoise seen in the video originates from the Seychelles islands and is classed as 'vulnerable to extinction' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Despite their prestigious history dating back 30 million years, they are kept in squalid cramped cages at the Chatuchak market in Bangkok. The shopkeeper even appeared to have tried to hide the reptile by covering its metal enclosure with a black sheet.

One tourist who noticed the animals said: 'I found it distressing. It's not how they should live. The local inhabitants don't seem to care for animal welfare unless something is furry and cute.'

It is not known how the Aldabra giant tortoise ended up at the filthy market, best known for attracting millions of holidaymakers a year to its sprawling souvenir section.

The shop owner would not answer questions about the animal.

However, official guidelines on animal trade in the country show that there are no restrictions on the import and sale of the animals.