Wildlife Rescue Team Malta has welcomed a new patient, a Loggerhead turtle named Louise, at the Xrobb l-Għaġin Wildlife Rehab Centre. Louise was accidentally caught by a fisherman 15 miles off Ċirkewwa, having swallowed a fishing line and hook. She is also missing her right rear flipper, likely due to an old injury.
Thankfully, the fisherman acted responsibly; he did not try to remove the hook himself or cut the line. Instead, he contacted the Wildlife Rescue Team, who met him in St. Paul’s Bay. Louise will now be treated by the team’s veterinarian.
This rescue highlights the importance of contacting professionals when encountering injured wildlife. Loggerhead turtles are protected species in Malta, and it is illegal to keep them as pets. Wildlife Rescue Team Malta’s trained and licensed volunteers are equipped to handle such cases safely.
The public is urged to report injured wildlife by calling 99999505. The team also welcomes donations via bank or Revolut transfer.
Wishing cute Louise a speedy recovery!