Turtle Patient 232: Vilunoo, Juvenile Olive Ridley
Vilunoo is a juvenile olive ridley who was discovered afloat by two fishers near Hithaadhoo Island in Baa Atoll. They were familiar with the Rescue Centre and promptly picked him up and dropped him off with us.
The Vitals
Admission Date: 20 January 2024
Patient Number: 232
Rescue Location: Baa Atoll
Reason: Found Floating
Transport Method: Speedboats
Status: Released 29 January 2024
Species: Olive Ridley
Scientific Name: Lepidochelys olivacea
Sex: Unknown
Age: Juvenile
Length: 18.4 cm
Weight: 0.88 kg
Vilunoo’s Story
Vilunoo means “light blue lagoon” in Dhivehi. This juvenile olive ridley was found floating by a two fishers near Hithaadhoo in Baa Atoll who brought him to the Rescue Centre.
We gave Vilunoo a comprehensive health assessment, including a physical examination, X-rays, full blood work, and biometric measurements. Since arriving, Vilunoo has been doing well, quickly adjusting to his surroundings and actively exploring the bottom of the tank for food. Our team is pleased with Vilunoo’s progress, and we anticipate releasing him back into his natural habitat soon, alongside his fellow young companions, Baraboa and Moodhu.
29 January 2024
Vilunoo is possibly the most sensitive turtle we have at the Rescue Centre. He eats really well any food items offered, is able to reach the bottom of his enclosure with no difficulty, and spends most of his time swimming effortlessly. With his progress, Vilunoo is now ready to be released alongside his fellow tiny patients Baraboa and Moodhu.
