SAN DIEGO — A loggerhead sea turtle that was rescued from the Salish Sea in February and rehabilitated in Vancouver has been returned to the wild in southern California.
Moira was just the second of her species to be spotted in the Pacific Northwest. The turtle was found floating in a bed of kelp. Her rescue was facilitated by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Marine Biologist Dr. Anna Hall.
After her rescue, Moira was cared for by the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society (VAMMR). Estimated to be 15-20 years old, Moira's core temperature was just 46.4 degrees Fahrenheit when she was found.
According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, loggerhead turtles primarily live in subtropical and temperate regions. Loggerhead turtle sightings have been reported as far north as Alaska and as far south as Chile.
“This has been a remarkable story for Moira. I am very proud of the vital role that VAMMR and Vancouver Aquarium staff have played in getting her ready to be released by SeaWorld and Turtles Fly Too,” said VAMMR Executive Director Dr. Martin Haulena.
Moira was first transported to SeaWorld San Diego to be assessed by veterinary and rescue teams for return to the wild.
A tracker was placed on the sea turtle, and she can be tracked at this link.
KING 5's Helen Smith contributed to this report.
