Rare turtle to be sent back home in 5,000-mile 'incredibly emotional' trip
A rare Kemp's ridley sea turtle named Rhossi is being transported from Wales to the Gulf of Mexico after being nursed back to health. The complex operation involves a 5,000-mile journey requiring specialized temperature-controlled crates and constant hydration care.
Why it matters
This highlights international conservation efforts and the logistical challenges involved in protecting endangered marine species.
Image caption, Rhossi the sea turtle has to travel thousands of miles by plane to get home
A rare turtle that washed up on a Welsh beach is being flown 5,000 miles (8,047km) back home to the Gulf of Mexico.
Rhossi the Kemp's ridley sea turtle was found close to death in December 2023, and has been nursed back to health by staff at the Anglesey Sea Zoo.
Now, conservationists have begun a carefully co-ordinated operation to fly him across the Atlantic ocean, making sure he does not dry out along the way.
"For his skin, we use KY Jelly - better known as a sex lubricant - because it's gentle on the eyes," said Matt Davidson, curator of Anglesey Sea Zoo.
Image source, Anglesey Sea Zoo Image caption, Rhossi being weighed and medically checked before his 5,000-mile journey
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