Loggerhead Turtle “Barnacle Bill” Departs Guernsey After Year-Long Stay

A turtle named Barnacle Bill, which came ashore in Guernsey in November 2023, has now departed the island, according to rescuers. The GSPCA reported that it had provided care for the loggerhead turtle since its arrival on the west coast. Condor Ferries facilitated the turtle’s complimentary transfer to Sea Life Brighton, from where the Royal Navy will subsequently transport it to “warmer seas.” Steve Byrne, the manager, expressed that they were “delighted” to make public the turtle’s departure from the island. He noted that Sea Life Brighton possesses “incredible turtle rehab facilities,” and the Royal Navy is slated to “take her to home waters.” Mr. Byrne also confirmed that the turtle has been microchipped and all necessary documentation for its return journey has been filed. Nevertheless, he explained that relocating endangered species such as loggerhead turtles necessitates both export and import documentation. The charity indicated it had dedicated “nearly a year” to assisting the turtle’s return due to complications with the required paperwork. According to Mr. Byrne, upon its arrival, the turtle was “cold and weak” but had “quickly improved,” gaining weight and increasing in size. Ian Le Moigne of Condor Ferries stated, “We transport many types of animals on our sailings each year so understand the importance of supporting organisations such as the GSPCA for the work they do in the Island.” He further remarked that she was a “very special passenger.”