A tiny loggerhead turtle has been nursed back to health after being blown to Ireland in Atlantic storms.
Dingle Oceanworld in Co Kerry has now appealed to airlines to fly Mara back to the Canary Islands.
The turtle was barely alive when found weighing just 6lbs on Dolans Beach, Co Galway, three weeks ago.
The reptile – thought to be five years old – was taken to veterinary staff in Clifden who brought her body temperature up slowly overnight.
Dingle Oceanworld director Kevin Flannery said: “She had hypothermia, they have to be about 24C internally and our water are only about 12C to 15C.
“It wouldn’t have lasted for long more only for she was found on the beach and the people in Western Veterinary got her into warm water.
“She is only a small turtle, a baby and is absolutely flying now.
He is appealing for help from an Irish air carrier to aid Mara’s recuperation.
Mr Flannery said: “We are looking one of the airlines to fly her down to Gran Canaria. That’s where the young ones spend their life.”
