It was a successful ‘Operation Loggerhead’ at Naval Island this morning as authorities moved swiftly to rescue a visibly dehydrated loggerhead turtle that had washed ashore.

The turtle was safely transported to the Arboretum Veterinary Clinic to be stabilised and placed on a drip before being taken to uShaka Marine World later today along with another rescued turtle.

Local veterinary surgeon Dr Jurgen Otto had been liaising with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife authorities, who were also fetching another hawksbill sea turtle from Isimangaliso Wetlands Park today.

The loggerhead was spotted at Naval Island early today by TNPA security officials who immediately notified the National Sea Rescue Institute (NSRI). NSRI officials then contacted Ezemvelo honorary officer (marine) Dave Savides, who acted as liaison between Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife marine ecologist Santosh Bachoo and local veterinary surgeon Dr Jurgen Otto.

With the help of Dave and Josh Pretorius, Miriam Otto and Scelo Mpanza, the injured turtle was safely transported for treatment in Richards Bay.

Both turtles will be safely taken to uShaka Marine World in the course of today.