VANCOUVER, BC — A loggerhead turtle that was rescued from the Salish Sea is now recovering at the Vancouver Aquarium after she became hypothermic. Now named Moira, she is only the second of her species to be spotted in the area.
The turtle was found floating in a bed of kelp in "obvious distress," according to the aquarium. Her rescue was facilitated by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Marine Biologist Dr. Anna Hall.
The Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society quickly took over Moira's care after transferring her to a rescue van at a ferry terminal. They took her to the rescue center from there.
An aquarium spokesperson said the turtle is responding well to treatment, but is still in critical condition. However, staff at the rescue are pleased with her progress. They are working on gradually re-warming Moira. Her internal temperature is about 17 degrees Celsius (about 63 degrees Fahrenheit). Their goal is to get her internal temperature between 22 to 25 degrees Celsius (between 71 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit.)
If Moira makes a full recovery, she will be sent to San Diego where she can be released into warmer waters.
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.
To the Vancouver Aquarium's knowledge, this is only the second reliable report of a loggerhead turtle in British Columbia waters.