Turtle Washes Up On Irvine Beach After Storm Desmond
An endangered loggerhead sea turtle who washed up on an Ayrshire beach as a result of Storm Desmond has been rescued thanks to the Scottish SPCA.
Scotland's animal welfare charity was alerted when the creature was discovered on Irvine Beach.
The turtle was successfully rescued on Sunday morning (6 December) and is now being cared for at the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary in Oban.
Scottish SPCA animal rescue officer Danielle Higgins said, "We do see these turtles off the coast of Scotland on the odd occasion but never usually at this time of year.
"This turtle should have been on his way to Spain where it's warmer but I think he may have stayed here due to the milder weather. "However, Storm Desmond has caught him out and brought him inland.
"There were a lot of crustaceans on the turtle which would have weighed him down, making it more difficult to swim in the strong currents.
"Quite a crowd gathered to witness this unusual event and we'd like to thank the local volunteer from British Divers Marine Life Rescue, members of the public and bike race stewards who helped move the turtle off the beach.
"The turtle is now being looked after at the Scottish Sea Life Sanctuary in Oban where he will stay until he is back to full health and strength. "Staff there are unsure how long this will be but once he is fit enough to fend for himself he will be flown to Gran Canaria and released back into the wild."
Anyone who discovers an injured or distressed wild animal should call the Scottish SPCA animal helpline on 03000 999 999.