Could a Storm-Goretti Turtle Get a Second Chance in the UK?

A loggerhead turtle named Crush, who was rescued and treated in Jersey after being affected by Storm Goretti, is set to be flown to the UK for further rehabilitation. This rare turtle was found malnourished and weak, and following life-saving care at New Era Veterinary Hospital, she will be transported by Loganair to Southampton before continuing her recovery at the Sealife Centre in Weymouth.

Last updated: 08 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Crush, the loggerhead turtle, is currently receiving specialised care after her rescue during Storm Goretti in January. The veterinary team at New Era Veterinary Hospital in Jersey has stabilised her condition, and she is now ready for transport to the UK, where she will continue her rehabilitation at the Sealife Centre in Weymouth. This transfer is critical as Crush requires a controlled environment to recover fully from the effects of "cold stunning," a condition caused by exposure to cold water that can severely affect turtles' health.

Key takeaways

Loggerhead turtle Crush was rescued during Storm Goretti in January.
She was treated for malnutrition and cold stunning in Jersey.
Loganair is flying her to Southampton for further rehabilitation.
After Southampton, Crush will be moved to the Sealife Centre in Weymouth.
She is expected to be released back into the wild in Spring.

Timeline: how we got here

Here’s a brief timeline of the key events surrounding Crush's rescue and rehabilitation:

January 2023: Crush is discovered on a beach in Jersey during Storm Goretti, suffering from malnutrition and cold stunning.
January - October 2023: Crush receives treatment at New Era Veterinary Hospital in Jersey.
Early October 2023: Loganair agrees to fly Crush to Southampton for continued care.
Late October 2023: Crush will be moved to the Sealife Centre in Weymouth for rehabilitation.
Spring 2024: Plans for her release back into the wild alongside other rehabilitated turtles.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

The most recent development is the arrangement by Loganair to transport Crush by plane, as she cannot withstand the stress of a ferry journey. This highlights the airline's commitment to animal welfare and the logistical considerations involved in the rehabilitation of marine wildlife.

What was already established

Prior to this transport, Crush was being treated for cold stunning and malnutrition at a veterinary hospital in Jersey. Her condition required immediate care, which has been successfully administered, leading to the current plan for her rehabilitation in the UK.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

For local communities, the story of Crush serves as a reminder of the impacts of extreme weather on wildlife. The efforts to rehabilitate such rare creatures can foster a greater awareness and appreciation for marine conservation, encouraging community support for local wildlife initiatives.

Businesses and jobs

Loganair's involvement signifies the role of transport and logistics companies in wildlife conservation efforts. This partnership not only showcases corporate social responsibility but also highlights opportunities for businesses to engage with conservation, potentially enhancing their public image.

Policy and regulation

The case of Crush may prompt discussions regarding wildlife protection policies in the UK, especially concerning the impact of climate change on marine species. It could lead to increased calls for improved regulations to protect vulnerable wildlife during extreme weather events.

Numbers that matter

1 – the number of loggerhead turtles currently being rehabilitated in the UK.
5 – estimated number of cold stunned turtles expected to be released back into the wild in Spring 2024.
2 – number of facilities involved in Crush's rehabilitation (New Era Veterinary Hospital and Sealife Centre).
10+ weeks – duration of Crush's treatment before transport.
1 – the specific airline (Loganair) chosen for Crush's flight to Southampton.

Definitions and jargon buster

Loggerhead turtle: A species of oceanic turtle known for its large head and strong jaws, often found in warm seas.
Cold stunning: A condition that occurs when turtles are exposed to cold water, causing their body systems to shut down.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, Crush will be transported to Southampton and then moved to the Sealife Centre. During this period, her health will be closely monitored to ensure she is stable and recovering well.

Medium term (1–6 months)

As Crush continues her rehabilitation, she will be assessed for her readiness to be released back into the wild. This will involve monitoring her feeding and strength until she is fit enough for release in Spring 2024.

Signals to watch

Updates from the Sealife Centre regarding Crush's recovery progress.
Plans for the release of cold stunned turtles in Spring 2024.
Any new regulatory measures affecting wildlife conservation in the UK.

Practical guidance

Do

Support local wildlife rehabilitation efforts by volunteering or donating.
Stay informed about marine conservation issues in your area.
Educate others on the importance of protecting marine wildlife.

Don’t

Don’t approach or attempt to rescue wildlife without proper training or guidance.
Don’t ignore the effects of climate change on local ecosystems.

Checklist

Check for local wildlife charities you can support.
Follow updates on Crush’s rehabilitation and release plans.
Understand the signs of cold stunning in turtles.
Participate in beach clean-ups to protect marine habitats.
Advocate for sustainable practices in your community.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Crush's story has garnered attention, it is important to note that there are uncertainties related to her full recovery and ability to survive in the wild after rehabilitation. The risk of further health complications due to cold stunning remains, and the success of her release will depend on various factors, including environmental conditions and her health at the time of release.

Bottom line

Crush's journey highlights the importance of wildlife rehabilitation and the collaborative efforts between veterinary services and transport companies in the UK. As she prepares for her journey to Southampton and subsequent rehabilitation at the Sealife Centre, the community's interest in her recovery underscores the need for ongoing support for marine conservation.

FAQs

What happened to Crush the turtle?

Crush, a loggerhead turtle, was rescued in Jersey after suffering from malnutrition and cold stunning due to exposure to cold water during Storm Goretti.

Where will Crush be rehabilitated?

After being flown to Southampton, Crush will continue her rehabilitation at the Sealife Centre in Weymouth, Dorset.

When will Crush be released back into the wild?

Crush is expected to be released back into the wild in Spring 2024, alongside other cold stunned turtles.