Two Green Turtles Rescued at Umzimkulu River

John Nicholas, NSRI Port Edward station commander, said: At 08h15, Monday, 22 September, NSRI Port Edward duty crew were activated following reports from uShaka Marine World of 2 green turtles needing to be recovered at the Umzimkulu River.

Contractors at the Umzimkulu River bridge, working on the reconstruction of the bridge, reported to uShaka Marine World of the 2 green turtles at risk at the construction site.

The KZN marine animal stranding network was activated with members of KZN marine animal stranding network, uShaka Marine World and NSRI Port Edward responding to the scene.

On arrival on the scene KZN marine animal stranding network and NSRI rescue swimmers entered the river with nets and both green turtles, found to be healthy and in good condition, were recovered.

The male green turtle was transported to uShaka Marine World to be tagged before being released while the female green turtle was released into the lagoon that has access to the sea.

The construction contractors, and the efforts of all involved, are commended in this successful operation.