A GREEN sea turtle found lost in Wagonga Inlet, Narooma is on the road to recovery thanks to the WIRES organisation.
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The turtle now named “Diamond” was found on August 26 by a concerned resident who rang National Parks who in turn contacted WIRES volunteers who came and collected the stricken swimmer.
The turtle is currently in the care of WIRES volunteer Janine Green and the beautiful animal is the third green turtle to come into her care.
It had received a blow to its back and this had caused an air pocket to form under its shell due to internal swelling.
The turtle's balance was thrown off by the air pocket.
Luckily, the turtle's luck changed when it came into Janine's care. Initially she took it to the Merimbula vet where it was given x-rays and antibiotics.
The turtle is recovering beautifully at Janine's special “turtle hospital” and seems to be enjoying its stay with her.
The antibiotics are working well, the bruise is healing and shrinking and the air bubble is almost gone!
These stunning animals can live until 80 years old but sadly they are now endangered.
Becoming caught in fishing nets, water pollution and development of their nesting beaches have caused their numbers to decline.
WIRES would like to thank a generous Merimbula resident named Helen for her very kind donation of a turtle recovery tank.
It has enabled WIRES to provide the correct water temperature and conditions to get injured turtles back into the sea where they belong.
WIRES will be holding a new members course on the weekend of November 8-9 at Mumbulla School in Bega.
Please ring the WIRES hotline 6495 4150 or email lizpiipari@gmail.com if you would like to attend this course and become a WIRES volunteer.