An adult female loggerhead turtle, named Finley by her rescuers, is showing encouraging signs of recovery at uShaka Sea World after being rescued near Richards Bay in December last year. Concern arose over Finley’s health after she was observed floating for an extended period near Richards Bay.

South African Association for Marine Biological Research (Saambr) spokesperson Ann Kunz said Finley was driven to uShaka Sea World, where Saambr’s Animal Health staff received her. 

“Her initial diagnostics revealed several areas of concern, which confirmed that she was indeed in need of medical intervention. Despite her weakened state and much to the surprise of her carers, she began feeding very soon after admission, which is quite unusual for turtles in such poor health. As long as squid is on the menu, she has an appetite,” Kunz said. 

“Further diagnostics revealed that Finley had an exceptionally low blood count. Her haematocrit level (blood count) was lower than any of the Saambr veterinary teams’ previously recorded levels in a live turtle, prompting a carefully managed blood transfusion as part of her treatment. Since then, her body condition has shown steady improvement, and she has begun gaining weight.” 

Kunz said that the team is encouraged by Finley’s progress, as she is now gradually moving within her rehabilitation pool. While she remains under close observation and is not yet out of danger, this is a positive step.

Saambr lead aquarist Malini Pather said: “While Finley’s progress is promising, her prognosis remains guarded as her blood count is still very low. 

“Sea turtle recovery can be unpredictable, and ongoing monitoring and supportive care will be essential in the weeks and months ahead. We remain hopeful that Finley will continue to regain strength and, in time, return safely to the ocean.”

Reacting, the Arboretum Veterinary Clinic said: “Oh wow such good news!” 

When Finley was spotted on December 20, the Arboretum Veterinary Clinic reported that it received a call about a sluggish sea turtle and decided to embark on a rescue mission. They located the turtle and successfully brought her to shore with the help of many bystanders. The group asked that she be called Finley. 

The clinic contacted Dr Francois Lampen at uShaka Marine World who confirmed she is a female and appears to be old, as she has a lot of barnacles on her, which is not a good sign, indicating that she does not swim much.

According to the clinic, upon arrival at uShaka Sea World, Finley’s weight was recorded as 41kg.

The clinic said that if Finley had been reported a day later, she would have died. 

“That is how close she was and how important it is to report any wildlife or animal in distress and need,” the Arboretum Veterinary Clinic said. 

thobeka.ngema@inl.co.za 

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