Loco Boomerang the Loggerhead... YYN 568

Loco the loggerhead has earned a new name -- Boomerang -- since he keeps swimming back to the beach.



The little TED turtle has been taken even farther offshore, ten miles south of Pensacola Pass. Hopefully, he'll learn to feed and grow on his own there. If not, we'll likely take him for continued training at the Galveston NMFS lab.



Amanda and her colleagues at the Gulfarium worked hard to keep their distance from the turtle and help him adjust to life without humans. They fed him live food, while trying to stay out of sight.



We each took a turn saying goodbye, again. Sally looked happy to see him go!



Even the Coast Guard crew, lead by Petty Officer Donovan, each took a turn with Loco Boomerang. He seemed to behave much better for them -- I wonder why?



If Loco/Boomerang is a female, we do hope to see her in 20 years as a nesting adult... Otherwise, I hope the turtle grows large and strong out there on the deep sea currents.

Look Who's Back

I received a call from Law Enforcement Ranger, Melissa, about a turtle on the beach. Melissa was trying to keep the turtle safe until I got there to take a look at it.



You'll never guess who it was...



Loco looked a little apologetic as I examined s/him to be sure that no ocean meanies had been nibbling on the small loggerhead.



I handed him to the concerned beach visitor who had called the park while I got some of my 'turtle stuff' together. Loco seemed to wave away the paparazzi.



Several beach combers, kayakers, surfers and fishermen have reported seeing the little loggerhead.



I'm happy to report the turtle looks healthy and happy! We're hopeful the turtle will continue to learn, grow and thrive.




Thanks for keeping an eye out for s/him -- I know this turtle has touched everyone who has met s/him, and that's the best sea turtle advocate we could ever have. We should start to see lots of the wee ones within the week!