Fighting Fibropapillomatosis: The TurtleSafe Team's Mission for Conservation

Welcome to the Journey: This striking image of a sea turtle embarks our exploration into the TurtleSafe Project, dedicated to protecting these majestic creatures and their habitats.

A Recent Heartbreaking Discovery

In a distressing turn of events, a sea turtle afflicted with Fibropapillomatosis (FP) was recently discovered by a local fisherman off the coast of Kilifi. Sadly, by the time it was found, floating helplessly far from shore, the turtle was too far gone to save. This incident painfully highlights the critical threats faced by sea turtles and underscores the urgent need for effective conservation strategies and early intervention.

Heartbreaking Reality: A stark reminder of our urgent mission as we encounter a sea turtle affected by fibropapillomatosis off Kilifi's coast, underscoring the critical need for marine conservation and local community engagement

Understanding Fibropapillomatosis

Fibropapillomatosis is a severe disease that affects sea turtles worldwide, characterized by external and internal tumors that can severely impact their health. Caused by a herpesvirus, FP leads to growths that can hinder a turtle's ability to swim, feed, and evade predators. Environmental factors, particularly water pollution, are believed to exacerbate this condition, making our conservation efforts even more crucial (read more here). The growths are more common in green turtles due to their more social nature they can spread the virus faster.

The Ocean Sole TurtleSafe Project's Response

At the Ocean Sole TurtleSafe Project, we are deeply committed to fighting this devastating disease. While our own facilities do not currently have the capacity to treat turtles with FP, we collaborate closely with local rehabilitation centers that specialize in the care and recovery of these majestic creatures. Through this partnership, we strive to ensure that every turtle with a fighting chance receives the necessary medical attention and a place to recover.

United for a Cause: The Oceanic Society have a dedicated turtle rehabilitation center in Watamu, working together to combat fibropapillomatosis and restore marine health.

How You Can Help

1. Support Rehabilitation Efforts: Direct your donations to the Ocean Sole TurtleSafe Project or our partner rehabilitation centers. Your contributions fund critical medical treatments and support facilities that are on the frontline of turtle conservation.

2. Report Sightings: If you encounter a sea turtle in distress, do not hesitate to contact local authorities or our team. Quick reporting can save lives and prevent further suffering.

3. Educational Outreach: Join us in spreading the word about the importance of healthy marine environments and the impact of diseases like FP. Education is a powerful tool in our conservation arsenal.

   
   

Looking Forward

As we continue to combat the spread of Fibropapillomatosis among sea turtle populations, we are also focused on preventative measures. These include advocating for cleaner oceans through regular beach clean-ups and working with local communities to reduce pollution, which is a significant contributor to the spread of FP.

Join Our Cause

This World Turtle Day, let’s renew our commitment to these incredible animals. Follow our progress and get involved by checking our updates on Instagram. Whether through a donation, volunteering for beach clean-ups, or simply by staying informed, your involvement makes a significant difference.

Conclusion

The fight against Fibropapillomatosis is challenging, but with the continued support of the community and dedicated conservationists, we can achieve a future where sea turtles thrive in clean, safe marine habitats. Join the Ocean Sole TurtleSafe Project in our mission to protect these precious marine lives from the threats they face every day.