Rescued loggerhead turtle Finley makes steady recovery at uShaka Sea World

A rescued adult female loggerhead turtle is making a steady recovery at uShaka Sea World after veterinarians say she would likely have died if help had arrived just a day later, as previously reported by IOL.

The turtle, later named Finley, was spotted floating for an extended period near Richards Bay in December, raising immediate concern about her health.

She was reported on December 20, prompting the Arboretum Veterinary Clinic to launch a rescue operation after receiving a call about a sluggish sea turtle.

With the help of several bystanders, the clinic’s team located Finley and successfully brought her to shore. The rescuers requested that she be named Finley.

The clinic then contacted Dr François Lampen at uShaka Marine World, who confirmed that the turtle is female and appears to be old. According to Dr Lampen, the large number of barnacles attached to her shell was a worrying sign, as it indicated limited movement and poor swimming ability.

Upon arrival at uShaka Sea World, Finley weighed just 41kg. The Arboretum Veterinary Clinic described her condition as critical, stressing how close she came to not surviving.

“That is how close she was, and it highlights how important it is to report any wildlife or animal in distress,” the clinic said.

Further examinations revealed that Finley’s haematocrit level, a measure of red blood cells, was lower than any previously recorded by the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (Saambr) veterinary teams in a live turtle. This prompted a carefully managed blood transfusion as part of her treatment.

Saambr spokesperson Ann Kunz said Finley was transported to uShaka Sea World, where Saambr’s Animal Health staff immediately took over her care.

“Her initial diagnostics revealed several areas of concern, confirming that she was indeed in need of medical intervention,” Kunz said. “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 added that since the blood transfusion, Finley’s body condition has steadily improved and she has begun gaining weight.

The rehabilitation team has been encouraged by her progress, noting that she is now moving more confidently within her rehabilitation pool. While she remains under close observation and is not yet out of danger, her recovery marks an important milestone.

Saambr lead aquarist Malini Pather said sea turtle rehabilitation can be unpredictable and requires ongoing monitoring.

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

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