Last week, a loggerhead turtle was pulled out from the ocean at Havana Beach in Beirut, Lebanon.
According to Green Area, witnesses at the beach saw a beachgoer pull the turtle out from the sea and attack him and use him for selfies.
The beachgoer reportedly stepped on the turtle, beat him, and photos were obtained that documented the entire upsetting incident.
One of the beachgoers is shown placing a child on top of the turtle, and another hit it with a stick.
Jason Mier, executive director of Animals Lebanon, told The Dodo: “We were not present when the turtle came to shore and have to rely on pictures and accounts of people who were present.”
“Luckily, other people were there who did care and stopped this and helped get the turtle to a safe area,” Mier continued.
Animals Lebanon helped the injured turtle after the incident and has provided it with veterinary care so it can soon be returned to the ocean. The turtle has a very evident spot on his skull, the very top of his head, where he has been hit,” Mier said. “There is a noticeable depression in the head where the bone has been damaged and
“There is a noticeable depression in the head where the bone has been damaged and sea water is able to enter the bone. A small amount of pressure around this area and the water seeps back out,” he continued.
Mier adds that while there is a possibility that the turtle’s head injury may have been from a previous experience, he consulted two veterinarians that believe the turtle’s wound came from being struck recently.
The turtle’s rehabilitation pool is set up, and in 15 days, he will be reassessed to see how far he’s progressed.
We’re thankful Animals Lebanon rescued this turtle, and to learn more about how you can help, please visit their Facebook.
[Featured Image Credit: Green Area]
Man Dragged Turtle From Ocean So Children Can Stand On Him is an article from: LifeDaily