Rescued Zini turtle in recovery
The sub-adult turtle, which was named Emily when she was admitted into uShaka's care, was obviously exhausted and was rehydrated and left to rest for the weekend
AFTER washing up on Mtunzini’s main beach last weekend, a green turtle is in recovery at uShaka Sea World, with her carers ‘cautiously optimistic’ as to a full recovery.
The sub-adult turtle, which was named Emily when she was admitted into uShaka’s care, was obviously exhausted and was rehydrated and left to rest for the weekend.
She is estimated to be six years old.
On Monday morning she appeared sturdy enough to cope with some non-invasive examinations including X-rays and an external physical assessment.
Lesions on her carapace are being treated with a mixture of Turmeric and F10.
‘Blood tests, which will only be taken later in the week, will give us a more accurate indication of her condition,’ said uShaka Sea World Senior Aquarist, Malini Pather.
‘At this stage her condition and behaviour suggest her illness could have been caused by an internal infection, but time will tell.’
Emily is 5kg underweight which means she weighs only 9.9kg of the 15kg she should weigh for her size.
On Tuesday afternoon she started eating the seaweed that was placed in her tub – a good sign that she will soon be on the road to recovery.
‘Reptiles have a very slow metabolism and their rehabilitation is generally a slow and steady process.
‘We are going to proceed with antibiotics, brief swimming periods, fluid therapy and loads of rest for the next a few days.
‘When she is stronger we will start offering her food. At this stage I am cautiously optimistic.’
Green turtles are resident in South African east coast waters and in recent years, a few have nested on local beaches, which is a rarity.
The species is listed as endangered by the World Conservation Union (IUCN).
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