Dan Bilzerian claims workers said it was fine to sit on the reptile.
A bikini-clad woman has been photographed riding a tortoise in the British Virgin Islands, sparking a massive uproar.
Read: Alligator Proudly Trots Across Golf Course With Massive Lunch of Fish in Its Jaws
The man who posted the photo is Dan Bilzerian, the self-proclaimed “King of Instagram.”
His female companion was on top a Galapagos Tortoise — a protected species. At 100 years old, the tortoise is one of the oldest species on Earth.
Backlash on the photo-sharing site was swift.
"Completely irresponsible," read one comment.
"Repulsive," said another.
One wildlife expert said: "These are incredibly rare animals. You should not be riding on its back. You could injure it, you could stress it out."
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Now, Bilzerian, a pro poker player, is hitting back.
"Get off your soapbox," he said, "the people working there said it's fine to sit on them."
Watch: Tortoise Is Still Considered Young as He Celebrates 50th Birthday With Watermelon Cake
