Remarkable Rescue: Loggerhead Turtle Takes to the Skies After Storm

A recent incident stemming from Storm Goretti has led to an uplifting story of resilience and compassion. After being swept off course by powerful winter winds, a young loggerhead turtle was discovered along the coast of the Island of Jersey, facing a dire situation that could have ended tragically.

From Cold Waters to Warm Hearts

The turtle, aptly named Crush after the beloved character from Finding Nemo, was found “cold stunned”—a condition resulting from extensive exposure to cold water. Fortunately, local veterinarians at New Era Hospital intervened promptly, stabilizing her condition with the help of warmed seawater provided by The Jersey Oyster Company.

A First Class Journey

Realizing that a boat journey across the English Channel could pose too much stress for the vulnerable turtle, veterinarian Peter Haworth reached out for a unique solution. Thanks to Loganair, Crush was granted a VIP airline ticket, traveling as a First Class passenger on a scheduled flight to Southampton, England. This is a remarkable example of collaboration between wildlife professionals and aviation, ensuring that the young turtle could embark on her journey with minimal disruption.

Looking Ahead to Recovery

Upon landing in Southampton, Crush was driven to a care facility where further assessments revealed she had ingested a concerning amount of sand. Thankfully, the compassionate team at the SeaLife Centre is dedicated to her recovery, with hopes to reintroduce her to her natural habitat this coming spring.

This heartwarming story exemplifies not only the importance of wildlife rescue but also the dedication of various organizations that come together to support our planet's endangered species. As we follow the journey of Crush, let us celebrate the efforts made to protect and rehabilitate vulnerable wildlife, reminding us all of the impact we can make through collaboration and care.