In collaboration with Two Ocean Aquarium Foundation, Suzuki Marine adopted another turtle hatchling, followed by a successful adoption in 2023 when Suzuki adopted a turtle hatching, called Suzi,which led to a successful release later in June 2023.
In collaboration with Two Ocean Aquarium Foundation, Suzuki Marine adopted another turtle hatchling, followed by a successful adoption in 2023 when Suzuki adopted a turtle hatching, called Suzi,which led to a successful release later in June 2023.
There are different sea turtle species of which six are classified as endangered. The shocking reality is that no more than two in one thousand loggerhead turtles survive into adulthood, due to several factors such as plastic pollution, bycatch of commercial fishermen, and climate change.
As part of Suzuki’s Clean Ocean project, we joined hands with the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation and adopted the turtle-hatching Zuki. Our little hatchling was rescued on 16 April 2024 in Struisbaai. Upon arrival, Zuki weighed 182g and had many goose barnacles covering his carapace and plastron. Zuki now weighs an impressive 241.52g and enjoys basking in the sun.
At this early age, the gender of the turtle is unknown. This is a common norm in turtles as their gender starts to show when they reach 16 to 17 inches.
The rehabilitation process consists of different inputs and processes. Suzuki Marine and Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation are dedicated to making this process smooth and successful. This includes implementing a diet, mending broken shells, and initiating a balanced environment that favors growth and development.
As “It takes a village”, we invited our Facebook followers to help us name the turtle, with 5 names to choose from.
- Geki
- Stealth
- Cruz
- Shinobi
- Zuki
Zuki was the people's favorite, and we thank our Facebook community that came together and named this little hatchling. We will keep our social media community updated about Zuki's development and rehabilitation process.
Read all about our Clean Ocean projects here: https://www.suzukimarine.co.za/clean-ocean-project
