Endangered Green Sea Turtles Undergo Vital CT Scans

Two endangered Green Sea Turtles, named Sharky and Josie, were transported 140 miles from Sea Life Weymouth to the Royal Veterinary College (RVC) in London for essential CT scans. The journey for the rescued turtles lasted four hours. These diagnostic scans are utilized to identify bone infections, ascertain the presence of ingested foreign objects, and monitor for any non-viable egg production. A spokesperson for Sea Life Weymouth stated: “Our turtles are incredibly resilient, but it’s our duty to ensure they receive the best possible care.” The turtles have been trained to enter a specialized stretcher, which facilitates their weighing and transportation. Their transport involved custom-made wooden crates, which were padded and ventilated. To prevent their shells from drying out during transit, they were coated with Vaseline, and a heated van maintained a consistent temperature of 24°C to meet the turtles’ tropical requirements. Subsequently, both turtles were anaesthetized and moved through the CT scanner. This technology offers more detailed information compared to conventional X-rays, producing 3D images that allow veterinarians to examine internal structures and skeletons with enhanced precision. Following a swift review of the scan results, the turtles were carefully roused from anesthesia and transported back to Sea Life Weymouth. There, they resumed their regular activities, including enjoying their preferred snack, squid. The Sea Life Weymouth spokesperson further commented: “The CT scan gives us a clear understanding of their internal health, allowing us to take preventive measures to keep them comfortable and happy.”