THE endangered turtle that was flown to the UK for rehabilitation after being washed up in Jersey during Storm Goretti has reached a “major milestone” in her recovery.
A specialist CT scan showed that loggerhead turtle Crush has gained over 700g – more than 25% of her previous body weight – since arriving at a specialist sealife centre in Weymouth last month.
The SeaLife Centre team has also been treating a lung infection that Crush was suffering – something that is common in stranded turtles in a weakened state.
Crush’s recent blood results suggest the antibiotics have been working and the infection has almost cleared.
It’s not the end of the road for the turtle’s recovery as she will continue to be closely monitored, undergoing regular blood tests and X-rays, “with every next step guided by her progress”.
Alongside the animal care team at the SeaLife Centre, Crush’s treatment is being led by Tania Monreal from the International Zoo Veterinary Group, as well as Holly Asquith-Barnes from Medivet and David Hollah from Piddle Valley Vets.
SeaLife Centre curator Kico Iraola said: “Crush has shown an incredible fighting spirit since arriving with us, and this is a really encouraging stage in her recovery.
“Her weight gain over the past six weeks is a strong sign that she is responding well to treatment and the specialist care she is receiving.
“With sea turtles, there is no rushing the process. We take our lead from Crush every step of the way and will continue to give her all the care and support she needs.”
Crush washed up in Jersey in January during Storm Goretti, having been swept far off-course from her natural habitat.
Loggerhead turtles typically live in much warmer waters and are rarely found in the Channel Islands, but powerful storms and ocean currents can disorientate them.
This leads to a condition known as ‘cold stunning’, where prolonged exposure to cold water causes their bodies to shut down.
After being discovered by a member of the public, the weak and malnourished turtle was taken to New Era Veterinary Hospital where she received round-the-clock treatment.
After it was decided that a ferry crossing would cause Crush undue stress and affect her recovery, the New Era team contacted Loganair to see whether the airline could support them in moving the turtle to the next stage of her rehabilitation.
Crush was flown out on 10 February on the 7.05am flight to Southampton, before being taken to the SeaLife Centre in Weymouth, where her rehabilitation has continued.
It is hoped that Crush can return to the wild after she has finished her recovery.
