Following alarms raised by Wildlife Rescue Team Malta and Calypso Diving Centre about an injured turtle in the Xwejni area, a spotting of what is very likely the same marine animal earlier last week led to its rescue.

A client from Bubbles Diving Centre at Dwejra noticed a turtle with fishing lines coming out of the mouth and cloaca, Wildlife Rescue Team Malta explained.

Bubbles Dive Centre immediately convened on site after a call and brought the turtle up to shore whilst making sure not to pull any of the lines.

The turtle was transported to Cirkewwa with a massive collaboration by the Gozo Channel Operations Limited, and from there to the Xrobb L-Għaġin Nature Park and Wildlife Rehab Centre.

‘From assessments, we are confident that today’s turtle is the same one spotted in Xwejni 3 days ago. The algal growth patterns and facial scute patterns match.’

‘The turtle, now named Caitlin for the diver who spotted her, is resting, and our vet will be performing furthet tests and x-rays to determine if there is also an ingested hook or not.’

#MaltaDaily