A Kemp's ridley sea turtle found on a Welsh beach is being transported 5,000 miles to the Gulf of Mexico after two years of rehabilitation.

Rhossi, a rare Kemp's ridley sea turtle, is undergoing a 5,000-mile journey from Wales to the Gulf of Mexico to be released back into the wild. Found near death on a beach in Rhosneigr in December 2023, the turtle was rehabilitated by the Anglesey Sea Zoo. Conservationists are now executing a complex transport operation to return the animal to its natural habitat.

Rehabilitation and Care

When discovered by a dog named Meg, Rhossi was less than two years old and suffering from cold-stunning, a condition caused by exposure to water temperatures far below the species' natural habitat. Staff at the Anglesey Sea Zoo believe strong winds caused the turtle to drift from warmer waters. Over two-and-a-half years of care, Rhossi grew significantly, increasing in weight from under 1kg to 21kg.

Logistics of the Journey

The repatriation process required two years of planning, including the construction of a custom temperature-controlled crate and the navigation of international paperwork. Because the turtle must travel out of water, staff are using KY Jelly and Vaseline to keep his skin, eyes, and shell hydrated and prevent peeling during the flight. The journey involves a helicopter transport from Anglesey to London, followed by a cargo flight to Houston, Texas.

Conservation Significance

Kemp's ridleys are considered the rarest sea turtle species globally, with nesting sites limited to specific beaches in Mexico and Texas. The Anglesey Sea Zoo, which has rescued four sea turtles in the past decade, views this release as a contribution to the species' survival. The facility is currently planning to establish a dedicated rescue center for future cold-stunned turtles found along the Welsh coast.