Porto d’Abrigo do Zoomarine rescued a loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) after the animal was found stranded among rocks by a group of surfers at Praia da Mareta, in Sagres.
The alert allowed for rapid intervention in the field, ensuring the stabilization of the turtle, which showed signs of dehydration and suspected pulmonary complications. The animal was sent to the rehabilitation center, where it is under specialized care.
Upon arrival at Porto d’Abrigo do Zoomarine, several clinical examinations were carried out, including assessment of the general condition, blood tests and X-rays. The results showed signs of dehydration and possible pulmonary complications, and an appropriate treatment plan was defined.
The turtle, affectionately nicknamed Xena, is recovering, evolving positively under constant monitoring by the technical committee.
“When Xena arrived, we realized that she needed immediate care. Being a delicate process, which requires daily attention and a lot of dedication from the team, seeing the positive evolution of each animal reminds us why we do this work and reinforces the importance of acting quickly whenever an animal is found in difficulty”, says Antonieta Nunes, veterinary nurse responsible for Zoomarine’s Porto d’Abrigo.
Return to sea depends on clinical stabilization
The turtle will be returned to its natural habitat as soon as the rehabilitation team confirms that the clinical condition is stable and compatible with life in the wild, completing the recovery process.
The case also serves as a warning about the procedures to be adopted when a marine animal is found in difficulty. Porto d’Abrigo do Zoomarine reminds you that it is essential to remain calm, respect the animal’s space and immediately contact the competent authorities, available 24 hours a day.
Useful contacts when encountering a marine animal in difficulty:
- National number ABRIGOS – Marine Mammal Support Network / ICNF: 968 849 101
- Porto d’Abrigo do Zoomarine Rehabilitation Center: 289 560 300 (extension 3)
- Rede de Arrojamentos Algarve (RAAlg): 968 688 233
- Alentejo Arrojamentos Network (ARROJAL): 932 004 615
- Rede de Arrojamentos Lisboa e Vale do Tejo (RAVLT): 911 111 241
- Northern Arrojamentos Network (CRAM – ECOMARE): 919 618 705
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