These amazing images show what appears to be a barnacle-covered turtle that appeared to have died a long time ago.
Newport lifeguards played a big role in rescuing a sea turtle on Saturday.
These remarkable images appear to depict a turtle covered in barnacles, giving the impression that it had died a long time ago.
In reality, the weakened sea creature is still clinging to life, despite fierce efforts to survive.
Surf lifeguards responded to the carcass of this male green turtle after it washed ashore in Newport Beach on Saturday.
On Saturday, Newport lifeguards played a role in the belly of a sea turtle.
Unlike their usual operations, Newport lifeguards acted quickly to help a sea turtle on Saturday. (Photo: Rosie Elliott)
They provided immediate care, keeping the turtle moist with water and a wet towel while they secured the area.
The turtle was later transferred to Taronga Wildlife Hospital, where dedicated staff are working diligently to restore its health.
At this stage, it is not yet known whether the resilient creature will overcome its ordeal. However, the veterinarians who treated the turtle were hopeful.
“Right now we can only hope,” said hospital manager Libby Hall. “We will do everything we can to rehabilitate him and return him to his natural habitat… although it will be a long treatment process.”
This photo shows a healthy green turtle for comparison.
According to Ms Hall, tests are still being carried out to determine the exact condition of the turtle. The turtle is expected to have been floating on the sea surface for several months.
The examination has revealed an excessive amount of gas in the turtle’s digestive system, possibly as a result of ingesting marine debris. Ms Hall said: “It is too early to provide a definitive diagnosis of what happened. “It has certainly been in a weakened state for some time, given the number of barnacles it has.”
Rosie Elliott, a member of the Newport Surf Life Saving Club who was present on the beach when the turtle was found, described the creature as looking exhausted.
“He didn’t seem particularly stressed; “It just seemed like he needed a break,” he stated. “It seemed very complicated. He appeared right between the flags, out of nowhere.”
The marine animal, although weakened, continues to fight for its survival. Surf lifesavers played a major role in the case of the male green turtle that washed ashore in Newport Beach last Saturday.
