Yesterday, a couple on a jet ski off the coast of Gozo spotted a juvenile loggerhead turtle out at sea that wasn’t diving properly and was flipping onto its back, indicating that something was wrong. The turtle was brought in to the Nature Trust volunteers at Mġarr Harbour and is now being cared for at the Xrobb L-Għaġin Nature Park and Wildlife Rehab Centre, where it was given the name Jaxon.

The turtle appeared to be underweight and malnourished, which explains its struggles out at sea, and suggests it might be unwell. The turtle, like all others rescued by Nature Trust, is a protected species, for which the volunteers have wildlife handling permits, training and equipment in order to properly handle the creatures.

The couple that found the turtle were commended for their quick action – anyone who spots an animal in danger is encouraged to call the Wildlife Rescue Team Malta on 99999505.

Wishing Jaxon a speedy recovery!