Imagine walking along the beach and stumbling upon a rare sea turtle, miles away from its native habitat. This was the reality for a dog walker in 2021 when they discovered Tally, a female Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, stranded and near death.
Kemp’s Ridley Turtles
Kemp’s ridley turtles are primarily found in the Gulf of Mexico and the coastal waters of eastern North America. However, the Gulf Stream’s unpredictable currents can sometimes sweep these young turtles to distant shores, like the frigid Northeast Atlantic.
Tally’s Fight for Survival
When Tally was found, she was in a critical state, battling the cold and the odds of survival. Thankfully, the Anglesey Sea Zoo in Wales took her under their care, providing months of intensive rehabilitation.
20 Months
The zoo worked tirelessly to nurse Tally back to health. Their efforts were not in vain. After 20 months, Tally was ready for her next big adventure: returning home.
Tally’s Journey Home
Transporting an endangered sea turtle across continents is no small feat. It required collaboration from various organizations, including Turtles Fly Too, a nonprofit dedicated to relocating sea turtles.
Transatlantic Flight
With the necessary paperwork secured and logistics in place, Tally embarked on a 22-hour transatlantic flight back to Texas.
A Beacon of Hope
Before her anticipated release into the Gulf of Mexico, researchers will attach a tracking device to Tally’s shell. This temporary addition will allow scientists to monitor her movements, ensuring she safely readjusts to her natural habitat.
Endangered Sea Turtle
Kemp’s ridley turtles are among the world’s most endangered sea turtles. Their numbers dwindled dangerously close to extinction in the 1980s.
Completely Round Shell
These turtles have a unique, almost completely round shell that can grow up to 2ft long, and they can weigh approximately 88lb.
What They Eat
While they primarily feed on crustaceans, they also enjoy a diet of various foods, including seaweed.
Final Thoughts on Turtle Tally
Tally’s incredible journey from the beaches of Wales to the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico is a heartwarming tale of resilience, collaboration, and hope. It serves as a reminder of the beauty of nature and the importance of conservation efforts. As Tally swims freely in her native waters, she carries with her a story of triumph and the collective efforts of those who ensured her survival.
Tara enjoys writing about marine animals like whales, sharks, dolphins and nudibranchs.
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