Rescued Loggerhead Turtle Set for Return to the Wild After Remarkable Recovery

A loggerhead turtle rescued from a Jersey beach after being left stranded during Storm Goretti is preparing to return to the wild following months of specialist care.

The turtle, affectionately named Crush, was discovered by a dog walker on the island's coastline in January. Suffering from severe malnutrition and the effects of cold-stunning, her body temperature had fallen to just 10°C.

She was initially cared for by the team at New Era Veterinary Hospital, where staff stabilised her condition before arrangements were made for specialist treatment in the UK.

In February, Crush was flown to the Sea Life Centre in Weymouth on a Loganair flight to begin an intensive rehabilitation programme.

Since arriving at the centre, she has undergone CT scans, routine blood tests, regular veterinary examinations and followed a carefully controlled diet designed to rebuild her strength and restore a healthy weight.

Sea Life Weymouth said Crush has now made a full recovery and preparations are under way for her release back into warmer waters, where conservation experts believe she will have the best chance of surviving in the wild.

The centre said it is working with conservation partners to finalise transport arrangements by air before the turtle begins her journey home.

Staff praised the dedication of everyone involved in Crush's rehabilitation and thanked the hundreds of supporters from Jersey and around the world who have followed her recovery.

Further details about Crush's release will be announced once plans have been confirmed.