A turtle, now named Red-X, was rescued by the Malta Red Cross and Nature Trust during an operation at Little Armier last weekend.

Nature Trust said that the Malta Red Cross contacted them last Saturday, informing them that there was a turtle in distress out at sea, which was rough with high waves.

A Nature Trust volunteer jumped into the sea, with lifeguards keeping a close eye on her.

"Getting the turtle was a challenge, but we managed,” Nature Trust said.

“Swimming back in with the turtle proved to be the next hurdle, and here we really want to thank the lifeguards for also jumping in to help our volunteer. Thank you for making sure everyone remained safe.”

The turtle, now named Red-X (for the Malta Red Cross), has been transferred to Nature Trust’s rehabilitation centre for further vet assessment.

Vets sadly discovered ingested fishing line coming out of her mouth, which in turn was entangled with a 2m wooden log. They will decide on a treatment plan after determining if there is a fishing hook stuck inside.

Nature Trust took the opportunity to remind people that turtles are protected species and it is illegal to keep them as pets.

If you spot a wild animal injured or in danger, you should call the Wildlife Rescue Team on 99999505.