This month we’re shining the spotlight on Jay, one of our current rehab turtles, and the next steps on his long road to recovery.

How Jay Arrived
On 19 June 2025, we received reports of a turtle floating near a neighbouring resort, unable to dive. From the photos and videos, he didn’t look too big – but when we got him on board with the help of some strong arms and our trusty turtle stretcher, we discovered Jay was a real heavyweight!

At the time, we only had one main rehab tank (home to Lesley) and a smaller mobile tank used for freshwater soaks. Jay didn’t fit comfortably in the smaller one, so we swapped the turtles around: Jay took over the big tank, while Lesley, ever the star, settled happily into the smaller tank – provided she still got her head and butt scratches, of course.

His Injury
Jay had suffered a severe boat strike injury to his tail and back flippers. From the position of the wound, it seems likely he was diving when he was struck. The injury was old, leaving his tail hanging down under its own weight.

To give him the best chance of healing, the team carried out deep wound cleaning and debriding (removing damaged tissue until only healthy flesh remains). With help from Uli and Boss Tino, we even designed a special full-body splint to support his tail.

When our vet, Dr. Nabila from Sabah Wildlife Department, examined him, it became clear the damage was too severe for full stitching – there simply wasn’t enough tissue in the right place. Instead, the area was cleaned and partially stitched, and we all endured the stressful wait for Jay to wake up from sedation.

The Critical Weeks
The following weeks were intense. Jay needed daily wound care, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and careful feeding. Unlike Lesley, who loves her sea grapes, Jay was picky – only certain types of squid would do. As he lost weight and energy, things looked bleak.

But just as we feared the worst, Jay suddenly rallied. With fluids and extra care, his appetite returned, his energy lifted, and before long he had a sparkle back in his eye. Today he’s eating well, has regained weight, and transformed from looking gaunt to being a proper chonk again!

Where He Is Now
Jay’s tail has healed as much as possible. Importantly, he can now control it and use the bathroom properly. With his weight restored, the next challenge is his buoyancy issue.

We’ll tackle this using targeted weight therapy – similar to divers. Custom weight pockets are being made, which will attach to his carapace with Velcro. We’ll start small, gradually increasing until he can stay comfortably at the bottom, and then reducing again until he manages buoyancy on his own.

Only once he can dive, sleep, and rest without assistance will Jay be ready for release.

The Road Ahead
Rehab is always a slow journey, but every step is worth it. Seeing Jay’s happy face each day reminds us why we do this – and why your support makes all the difference.