Turtle Patient 252: Dharifulhu, Adult Female Olive Ridley
Dharifulhu, an olive ridley sea turtle, was found floating by a Whale Shark Research Trip from Secret Paradise. After being observed floating for some time, she was brought onboard and transferred to our Marine Turtle Rescue Centre.
The Vitals
Admission Date: 17 May 2025
Patient Number: 252
Rescue Location: South Ari Atoll
Reason: Found Floating
Transport Method: Seaplane
Status: Current patient
Species: Olive ridley
Scientific Name: Lepidochelys olivacea
Sex: Female
Age: Adult
Length: 67.2 cm
Weight: 31.4 kg
The Adoptive Parents
Dharifulhu has kindly been adopted by John Bingham.
Dharifulhu’s Story
Dharifulhu, an olive ridley sea turtle, was found floating during a Maldives Whale Shark Research Programme expedition in collaboration with Secret Paradise Maldives. After being observed floating for some time, Dharifulhu was brought onboard and transferred to our Marine Turtle Rescue Centre.
Dharifulhu was first taken to LUX* South Ari Atoll, where marine biologist Ighasha cared for her overnight. The following day she was transported to our Marine Turtle Rescue Centre on Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Baa Atoll, Maldives.
Our comprehensive health assessment determined that Dharifulhu is missing both her front right and her left hind flippers. She is also suffering from severe anaemia and reduced organ function. Our team is now closely monitoring her.
Fun fact : in Dhivehi, the language spoken in the Maldives, “Dharifulhu” is an affectionate term used by parents for their children.
Adopt Dharifulhu
When you symbolically adopt one of our turtle patients you will receive:
- A personalised digital adoption certificate with the history of your adopted turtle patient
- A fact sheet about the species of sea turtle you have adopted
- Updates on how your adopted turtle’s recovery is going (if you wish)
- Your name featured on our website (if you wish)
- Notification in the case of a release
We ask for a minimum single donation of £50 to adopt a turtle patient. £50 will contribute to the cost of medical therapy for one patient for two weeks. You can also choose to make a monthly donation of your choice.
Please allow 7 days for the issuing of the certificate. Also note that we do not contact gift recipients directly.
By adopting one of our turtle patients you will contribute towards the cost of our patients’ veterinary care, medications, and transport. You will also help fund our core charitable objectives to protect sea turtles and their habitats through rescue & conservation medicine, clinical & scientific research, and education & outreach.
