The 36-year-old received the warning after an advert for 11 baby tortoises was spotted in a magazine.

She claimed to be unaware of the need for an Article 10 permit from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

The tortoises for sale are believed to be Tunisian spur-thighed, which are amongst the smallest tortoises.

They are brightly coloured with light yellow and black shells. On top of their heads, between the eyes, is a distinct yellow spot.

A spokesman for Notts Trading Standards said it had been alleged the tortoises had originally been brought into the country in a pizza box, although the Hucknall woman did not face any action over that allegation.

An Article 10 permit is needed to be able to sell a tortoise. Selling endangered animals without a permit could land the accused in prison.

The more endangered the animal, the stiffer the possible punishment.

RSPCA spokesman Sophie Wilkinson warned that sometimes tortoises do not make good pets because they need to maintain a regular body temperature, adequate humidity, a diet without meat or pet food, constant access to water and adequate lighting.

She added that tortoises can die within four years in captivity whereas in the wild they can live up to 80 years.