This small turtle has been named Manuela by its rescuers after it was spotted floating on the surface in Xlendi.by a fisherman on Friday morning

The fisherman, after monitoring the turtle for some time, called the Nature Trust – FEE Malta – Gozo Section volunteers, who went straight to the scene and after establishing that it remained at the surface even when stimulated, they started the relay to bring it in.

Manuela is the third turtle rescued since the start of the month, and the Gozo Section volunteers said that “although she had no entanglement at the time of rescue, there is obvious markings on one of her flippers that indicates she had entanglement recently. The damage to the flipper is not as severe as that of our recent two turtles.”

Manuela is now at the Xrobb L-Ghagin Nature Park and Wildlife Rehab Centre and will be checked by the Wildlife Rescue Team vet to determine why she is not diving. Treatment will then be initiated accordingly.

Nature Trust – FEE Malta – Gozo Section expressed its sincere thanks to Gozo Channel Operations Limited “for always helping us to cross over as quickly as possible to get our turtles over to Malta. All the animals we rescue are protected species and it is illegal in Malta to keep them as pets.”

“Our volunteers have wildlife handling permits and training as well as equipment in order to rescue these creatures. If you spot any of the wild animals that we rescue injured or in danger, please call the Wildlife Rescue Team on 99999505,” it said.

Wildlife Rescue Team Malta also thanked the public “as always who call us when they notice an animal in distress, our vets, and our dedicated rescue and rehabilitation volunteers.”

Photos: Wildlife Rescue Team Malta

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