Home / Environment / Loggerhead Turtle Rescued, Returns to Sea
Loggerhead Turtle Rescued, Returns to Sea
30 May
Summary
- Loggerhead turtle recovered after critical injury.
- Turtle rehabilitated for eight months by aquarium.
- Sea turtle's release is vital for loggerhead population.
Diamond, a 220-pound loggerhead sea turtle, has returned to the ocean after an eight-month rehabilitation period at the Virginia Aquarium's Stranding Response Team. He was discovered stranded on September 9, 2025, suffering from a critical injury that affected his ability to eat and breathe.
Veterinarians found that Diamond had aspirated significant amounts of seawater and sand, causing an airway blockage. He also had a stingray barb lodged in his tongue. Following surgical procedures and dedicated care, including medical treatment and physical therapy, Diamond has recovered and was released on Tuesday morning.
The aquarium emphasized that Diamond's survival was essential for the broader loggerhead sea turtle population, as he is a sexually mature male. His release signifies a hopeful development for the species.
