Lost 250-Lb. Loggerhead Sea Turtle Rescued After Wandering Nearly a Mile into a Georgia Marsh

**Loggerhead Turtle Rescued from Georgia Marsh and Returned to Ocean**

Wildlife officials and dedicated volunteers successfully rescued a loggerhead turtle, affectionately dubbed Wilbur, after the creature was discovered nearly a mile deep in a Georgia marsh. Weighing approximately 250 pounds, the turtle’s remarkable saga underscores the critical efforts of local conservationists in safeguarding marine wildlife.

The unusual incident began on a warm day in late June when Tammy Smith, a long-time volunteer with the sea turtle project, spotted Wilbur in marsh grasses adjacent to Highway 80. Unbeknownst to her, the turtle, an adult female loggerhead, had made her way from the nearby Atlantic Ocean and into the marsh area close to the South Channel of the Savannah River and Fort Pulaski National Monument, far from her natural habitat.

Sarah Alley, the curator of the Tybee Island Marine Science Center (TIMSC), promptly responded to Smith’s report. Upon arrival at the scene, she confirmed Wilbur’s species and realised the turtle had quite a journey, evidenced by her long crawl through the thick grass alongside the river. Wilbur’s determined trek concluded right by the trail, where she became stranded.

With the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) contacted, Alley faced a wait for additional help to arrive. In the interim, she devised a plan to keep Wilbur cool and comfortable by applying water and wet towels to her shell. Alley was fortunate to have brought a beach umbrella, which provided much-needed shade while she monitored the turtle’s wellbeing for close to three hours.

Describing her experience, Alley remarked on Wilbur’s lively demeanor, stating, “I decided to call her Wilbur because she was like a little marsh piggy, slapping her flippers in the mud.” She noted that the turtle exhibited no visible injuries and was robust, which provided reassurance during the challenging situation.

When the DNR team, including Sea Turtle Program Coordinator Mark Dodd, arrived with additional support, they carefully placed Wilbur into a large Velcro sling designed for marine animals. This safe transportation method enabled them to lift the turtle out of the marsh with the utmost care.

Following a successful extraction, Wilbur was transported to a DNR vehicle and subsequently released at the Gulick Street area of North Beach, allowing her to return to her ocean habitat. Curiously, it was noted that Wilbur did not have identification tags, and, after the ordeal she endured, officials opted against tagging her before her release.

Before letting her go, members of the team took measurements to gather further information, revealing that her shell measured just over three feet in length. Additionally, Alley reported that Wilbur left behind one egg, likely a result of the stress she experienced during her unexpected stay in the marsh. This egg was collected by the DNR for genetic testing as part of a study led by Dr. Brian Shamblin at the University of Georgia. The research aims to gather vital information regarding loggerhead turtles and their populations.

Concluding the heartwarming rescue story, the marine science centre sent a special message to the resilient turtle: “Until then, swim safe out there, Wilbur — and we hope to have you nest safely on Tybee’s beach!” This hopeful sentiment reflects the ongoing commitment of conservationists to protect marine wildlife and ensure a safer environment for these magnificent creatures.

The successful rescue of Wilbur highlights the significance of community involvement and collaboration in wildlife conservation efforts. With enhanced awareness and support for marine habitats, the future of loggerhead turtles and other sea life appears to be in capable hands.