Rare loggerhead turtle washed up in Suffolk during storm
BBC World
February 10, 2026
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A rare juvenile loggerhead turtle, not native to UK waters, was rescued after being found near-dead on a Suffolk beach following stormy weather. Steve Foreman, who spotted the turtle among debris on Dunwich beach, initially thought it was just "some rubbish." Upon closer inspection, he noticed slight movement in one flipper and carried it back to his campsite. He then called British Divers Marine Life Rescue (BDMLR) volunteers, who assessed the creature before transferring it to Hunstanton Sea Life Centre for treatment.
Loggerhead turtles are commonly found in warmer waters like the Mediterranean but are increasingly appearing in UK waters due to rising sea temperatures. These turtles often suffer from cold shock during storms, causing them to strand on beaches. BDMLR has seen an uptick in rescues across regions including the Channel Islands, Wales, Scotland, Dorset, and Kent, with only a few reported in Suffolk. The spokesperson emphasized that attempting to return stranded turtles to the water is counterproductive, as they are likely too debilitated to survive on their own.
The rescued turtle was nicknamed "Steve" by Foreman, though initial assessments suggest it may be a juvenile female. Loggerheads require specialized care and can take up to a year to recover before being released back into warmer waters. This case highlights the growing concern over changing marine ecosystems and the impact of climate change on sea life. It also underscores the importance of public awareness and conservation efforts to protect these endangered species, reminding readers that even small actions, like calling for expert help when encountering stranded wildlife, can make a significant difference.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/10/2026