Rhossi the sea turtle’s international journey has taken almost two years to organise. The complex relocation plan includes a specially designed temperature-controlled crate and extensive paperwork between the UK and the United States.
Although Rhossi normally lives in the sea, the turtle must travel out of the water for the first stage of the journey. He will be transported by helicopter from Anglesey to London before boarding a cargo flight to Houston, Texas.
Because sea turtles can quickly become dehydrated, the journey must be completed as efficiently as possible. Specialist staff will remain on hand throughout the trip to ensure Rhossi stays cool, moist and comfortable.
Davidson explained that Rhossi’s shell must be kept well lubricated, with Vaseline applied to prevent it from drying out and flaking.
The turtle’s delicate skin and eyes also require special care. Both eyes must be lubricated before Rhossi enters the travel crate and again shortly before take-off to prevent his skin from drying and peeling.
The preparations have even led to some unusual shopping trips, with Davidson purchasing several tubes of KY Jelly and tubs of Vaseline to keep Rhossi hydrated during his long-distance journey.
Source: www.bbc.co.uk