Multiple organizations have joined forces to protect endangered marine life, exemplified by the successful rescue and rehabilitation of a loggerhead sea turtle named Moira.
Moira was found cold-stunned in British Columbia on February 4, 2024, with a dangerously low core temperature of just 8 degrees Celsius (46.4 degrees Fahrenheit). After her rescue, she was transported to SeaWorld San Diego, where she was prepared for release back into the wild.
Key highlights of Moira's journey include:
Moira is estimated to be 15 to 20 years old and was only the second loggerhead turtle sighted in British Columbia.
Her rehabilitation involved extensive care from the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society (VAMMR) and SeaWorld's veterinary teams.
Moira was fitted with a satellite tracker to monitor her movements post-release.
The collaboration involved not only the VAMMR and SeaWorld but also Turtles Fly Too, which facilitated her transport. This multi-agency effort underscores the importance of returning endangered species to their natural habitats to ensure their survival.
Loggerhead turtles are crucial to marine ecosystems, and their populations are declining, making each successful rescue significant. Moira's release is a testament to the dedication and teamwork of various organizations committed to marine conservation.