Sea turtles are majestic creatures that can face numerous challenges, but one of the most distressing is barnacle infestation. Here’s a look at five of the most severe cases where these tiny pests caused big problems for our ocean friends.

1. The Iranian Rescue: A fisherman in Ashaluye, Iran, discovered a turtle burdened with barnacles. Using a blade, he carefully removed each barnacle to prevent further damage. After cleaning the glue left behind, the turtle was safely returned to the sea.

2. Little Turtle, Big Trouble: Off the Iranian coast, a young sea turtle was found heavily infested with barnacles. A local fisherman gently removed the barnacles, ensuring the little turtle’s safe return to the ocean.

3. Peruvian Effort: On Peru’s northern coast, a team of fishermen encountered a turtle floating with barnacles covering its body. After some struggle, they managed to get the turtle onboard and removed the barnacles, including those on its head.

4. Uruguayan Intervention: In Rocha, Uruguay, the Karumbé Foundation rescued a green turtle encased in barnacles. Using a spatula, they painstakingly removed around 3 kilos of barnacles that were hindering the turtle’s health.

5. Portuguese Biologists: Biologists off the Azores, Portugal, found a loggerhead turtle plagued by Lepas Anatifera barnacles. They meticulously removed the barnacles, helping the turtle regain its ability to swim efficiently.

These remarkable rescues highlight the incredible efforts to protect sea turtles from barnacle infestations. Stay tuned for more heartwarming rescue stories!