Watch: Injured Turtle Returns To Sea After Rehab Journey
An injured loggerhead turtle rescued earlier this year has been safely released back into the sea after undergoing extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
The turtle was found in May by Żibel’s Ghost Net Team in an extremely weak state and with a noticeably swollen tail but no external wounds. Upon arrival at port, the animal was immediately handed over to Nature Trust Malta.
A veterinary examination revealed the cause of her condition: a fishing hook lodged inside her body and a fishing line running through her system. Vets successfully removed the hook, while the remaining fishing line was eventually passed naturally during her recovery.
After months of care at Nature Trust’s Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in Xrobb l-Għaġin, the turtle was deemed healthy enough to return to her natural habitat and was released yesterday.
The team thanked Nature Trust volunteers for their work and acknowledged the efforts of team members Stephen, Robert, Karl and Gabriel, who helped rescue the turtle.
Members of the public who come across an injured turtle are urged to contact Nature Trust’s emergency line on 9999 9505. They are advised to lift the turtle onto their vessel—keeping its mouth facing away- and cover it with a damp towel to keep it calm until assistance arrives.
Well done to the team!