Louise Rescue Turtle

female Olive Ridley turtle (RB.LO.190), admitted 13 January 2020, Fenfushi, Raa Atoll, Maldives

Weight / Length: 19.0kg / 56.8cm (on admission);

 

A female Olive Ridley turtle was found floating on the ocean by a fellow marine biologist in Raa Atoll, close to the local island of Fenfushi. She was transferred to our Landaa Giraavaru turtle rescue centre on 13 January.

Upon admittance, Louise presented clear signs of recent entanglement, even though she had managed to free herself prior to rescue. Her right front flipper is presumed to have been amputated by ghost gear. Her left front flipper bears lacerations, and she has minor abrasions to the carapace. She also presents typical buoyancy disorder, making her float on the water surface, unable to dive.

Louise received immediate treatment for her injuries; she is otherwise active and strong, and able to swim normally. She was transferred to Kuda Huraa on 19 January for further treatment, and as soon as her wounds heal, she will be ready to go back into the big blue.

Fabia stranded Olive Ridley turtle Maldives
Fabia stranded Olive Ridley turtle Maldives
Fabia stranded Olive Ridley turtle Maldives

Updates June 2020

Louise is very active in her recovery pool, always waiting for her next meal. She still not using her front flipper for swimming, so we are continuing physiotherapy to encourage movement.

Louise female Olive Ridley turtle rescue treatment Maldives
Louise female Olive Ridley turtle rescue treatment Maldives

Our Current Turtle Residents