A rare loggerhead turtle, affectionately named Crush, is on her way to recovery and a potential return to the wild thanks to a collaborative effort spanning the Channel Islands and the mainland UK. The turtle was found severely weakened during Storm Goretti in January and has been receiving specialized care at New Era Veterinary Hospital in Jersey.
The story of Crush highlights the vulnerability of marine life to environmental changes and the dedication of individuals and organizations working to protect endangered species. Loggerhead turtles are classified as endangered, making each rescue and rehabilitation effort critically important for the species’ survival.
Crush was discovered on a Channel Islands beach following the intense storms that struck the region in early January. Rescued by volunteers from British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR), Littlefeet Environmental, and the JSPCA Animals’ Shelter, she was immediately brought to New Era Veterinary Hospital. The veterinary team determined she was suffering from “cold stunning,” a condition where the turtle’s body shuts down due to prolonged exposure to cold water temperatures. This is particularly dangerous for reptiles, as their metabolic rate slows dramatically in the cold, preventing them from feeding and maintaining essential bodily functions.
“Unaccustomed to English Channel water temperatures and unable to feed, her body had shut down,” explained staff at New Era Veterinary Hospital. The team worked diligently to slowly warm Crush, gradually restoring her ability to swim, and eat. This process required careful monitoring and specialized care, as rapid warming can be as detrimental as prolonged exposure to the cold.
As Crush regained her strength, it became apparent that the hospital’s facilities were no longer adequate for her long-term rehabilitation. “500 litres of salt water is hard to shift and heat,” the practice noted, emphasizing the logistical challenges of providing a suitable environment for a growing turtle. The nearest facility equipped to handle long-term loggerhead rehabilitation was located in the UK, but a ferry journey was deemed too risky for Crush’s fragile condition.
Fortunately, Loganair stepped in to offer a free flight to Southampton, overcoming the additional hurdle of navigating Border Force paperwork. This act of generosity underscores the widespread commitment to Crush’s recovery. The airline’s willingness to transport the turtle highlights the growing awareness of the importance of marine conservation and the need for collaborative solutions.
Upon arrival in Southampton, Crush will be transferred to the Sealife centre at Weymouth in Dorset. There, she will join another stranded loggerhead turtle undergoing rehabilitation in a larger, non-public tank. This shared environment will provide both turtles with the space and resources they need to continue their recovery.
The ultimate goal is to release both Crush and her companion back into the wild in warmer waters this spring, alongside three other turtles previously rescued from UK seas after experiencing cold stunning. This coordinated release plan demonstrates a comprehensive approach to marine animal rehabilitation, aiming to maximize the chances of successful reintegration into their natural habitat.
New Era Veterinary Hospital expressed their gratitude for the community support received throughout Crush’s care. “We are primarily a veterinary hospital – and the work and learning in this process as well as the equipment has been an immense challenge but we are loving it,” they stated. Beyond the expertise of the veterinary team and marine life volunteers, numerous local companies contributed to Crush’s rehabilitation, providing essential resources such as tanks, seawater filtration systems, and specialized food.
The case of Crush serves as a poignant reminder of the impact of severe weather events on marine ecosystems and the importance of rapid response and collaborative conservation efforts. Cold stunning is becoming an increasingly recognized threat to sea turtles, particularly as climate change leads to more frequent and intense storms and fluctuations in water temperatures. While the immediate focus is on rescuing and rehabilitating affected individuals, addressing the underlying causes of these events is crucial for the long-term health of marine populations.
The successful transport and ongoing care of Crush represent a significant achievement for all involved, offering a beacon of hope for the future of loggerhead turtles and marine conservation as a whole. Her story is a testament to the power of community, compassion, and dedication in protecting vulnerable species.
