Stranded Loggerhead turtle rescued on Umdloti Beach
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife is asking beachgoers not to return stranded marine animals to the water.
A loggerhead turtle was rescued last Wednesday after it became stranded on an Umdloti beach.
The female turtle was first sighted on the shore late on Tuesday afternoon. Several people tried to return the marine reptile to the ocean, but to no avail.
The following day, the rescuers returned to find the adult loggerhead lying on its back; however, it was still alive. Residents then notified KZN Strandings Network to coordinate its rescue.
Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife regional marine ecologist, Santosh Bachoo, was called to the scene. The loggerhead was not hurt but it did have an old injury unrelated to the stranding.
“The turtle was picked up south of Umdloti beach and transported to uShaka Marine World, where it is now receiving medical attention,” said Bachoo.
“The turtle’s right fore-flipper had been bitten off by a shark, but it’s an old wound that has healed completely, and is not the reason for the stranding.”
On arrival at uShaka, the dehydrated and slightly undernourished turtle had blood tests to check for infections. It also had an ultrasound and X-rays. The blood tests showed an infection, which is being treated with antibiotics. uShaka will keep the reptile for further observation.
Bachoo highlighted the importance of calling experts in to assist with turtle rescues.
“Do not put the turtle back in the water,” said Bachoo.
“It’s important to contact the beach manager, lifeguards, or KZN Marine Strandings Network when you encounter a stranded turtle to ensure that the situation is managed as best as possible. The turtle might be sick and unable to swim or dive and be in need of medical assistance.”
The 24-hour KZN Stranding Network number is 031-3288222 (office hours) or 031-3288060 (after hours). This is for all marine animals, including dolphins, whales, seals, snakes, turtles, penguins and seabirds.
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