The British Navy liberates marine turtles back into their natural habitat.
A few weeks ago, several loggerhead sea turtles, a critically endangered species, were discovered in a weakened and hypothermic state along British coastlines. These creatures were in dire need of assistance and were fortunately rescued by animal caretakers. After receiving adequate care and nutrition, they were eventually released by the British Navy near the Azores in the Atlantic Ocean. There had been six of these turtles discovered.
The young loggerheads had likely been pushed towards British shores by powerful winds and currents, originating from the Caribbean or the US East Coast. It is believed that they suffered from shock due to the sudden change in temperature. Four of these turtles were found along the Cornish coastline, one in Devon, and another on the Welsh island of Anglesey.
Steve Matchett, an employee of the Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay, was responsible for their care. He stated that upon arrival, the turtles were in poor condition and it was uncertain if they would survive the night. They were dehydrated and emaciated due to prolonged exposure to cold temperatures, causing them to lose appetite.
Naval Transport for Imperiled Sea Creatures
Once the turtles had regained their strength, they embarked aboard HMS Medway, a Royal Navy vessel. Their journey led them to the Azores, which is a Portuguese territory. The ship had been en route to the Caribbean, where it was to work alongside the US Navy in the fight against drug smuggling.
Rod Jones, who oversees environmental protection for the British Navy, expressed his joy at the opportunity to aid these creatures. While their return to warmer environments was not the primary purpose of the Royal Navy, they were appreciative of contributing to the overall health and biodiversity of UK seas.
The United Kingdom's animal caretakers, including Steve Matchett from the Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay, played a crucial role in rescuing eight loggerhead sea turtles along their coastlines. Subsequently, these turtles, now in better health, were given naval transport on HMS Medway, a Royal Navy vessel, to be released near the Azores, a Portuguese territory, helping to preserve the species within The United Kingdom's jurisdiction.
