As one loggerhead turtle checks in at a SeaWorld rescue and rehab facility, another has checked out to return to their vast ocean home.
Earlier in February, a loggerhead turtle was reported stranded along the Oregon coast. Initially found cold-stunned by the icy waters and unable to eat or move, the turtle was discovered by a private citizen and picked up for triage by the Oregon Coast Aquarium. After examining and stabilizing the sub-adult female and coordinating with the rescue organization, Turtles Fly Too, a flight was scheduled for the loggerhead turtle to be moved to SeaWorld San Diego for long-term rehabilitation to prepare for eventually re-release back into the wild. After arrival, the loggerhead turtle was swimming in a large pool, where dedicated staff will continue to monitor the turtle with plans for future release back into the wild.
Meanwhile, another female loggerhead turtle named Yosemite was released back into the vast ocean waters on the east coast of Australia. In this case, the rescued turtle spent a total of four months in rehabilitation after being found by a local dive company with a large hook embedded in her mouth. After spending two months with the Australian Seabird Rescue Ballina, the turtle transferred to SeaWorld Australia for strength and conditioning rehabilitation.
Loggerhead turtles are a common type of sea turtle, and like many turtles, are a long-lived species capable of reaching 70-80 years of age. However, the turtles often fall victim to “bycatch,” finding themselves caught up in nets cast by commercial fisheries. Tourism and development are a threat to the turtle’s coastal nesting habitats.
The return of even a single turtle to the open waters marks a high spot for dedicated volunteers, rescuers, and SeaWorld staff, who coordinate to rescue and rehabilitate these animals in need. See more details at https://www.undercovertourist.com/orlando/seaworld-orlando/