'Loabi', meaning 'love' in Dhivehi (used as an endearing and affection nickname), was found floating near Naifaru Harbour on September __ 2024 by the dive instructor at our partner dive shop (Aqua Dive & Water Sports) and our volunteers. They were headed out on a morning dive when they spotted Loabi floating on the surface with a large piece of plastic tied to a fishing rope, wrapped around its neck.
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This entanglement had created a deep wound around Loabi's neck and caused severe swelling. After being admitted to our centre, our fantastic vet was able to successfully remove the rope and assess the wound. Although the rope had caused some lacerations, they did not bleed profusely and the affected tissue was looking pretty healthy.
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Fortunately, Loabi's wound started to heal almost instantly! Already, by day 1 in our care, Loabi's swelling had reduced signifcantly, and the wound has healed really well since Loabi was first admitted.
We hope it won't be too long before Loabi is ready to be released back into the ocean! Stay tuned for updates about Loabi's progress on our social media, or by adopting Loabi to recieve monthly updates through our newsletter.
SPECIES: Hawksbill
STATUS: Critically Endangered
SEX: Unknown
PERSONALITY: Sulky and shy
RELEASABILITY: Releasable