Rare Kemp's Ridley Sea Turtle Recovers in Texas After Transatlantic Journey
Rhossi, a Kemp's ridley sea turtle, is recovering at the Houston Zoo after a remarkable 5,000-mile journey from Wales to Texas. Found nearly dead and cold-stunned on a Welsh beach in December 2023, Rhossi, native to the Gulf of Mexico, was nursed back to health over two years at Wales' Anglesey Sea Zoo. After tripling in size to 46 pounds, the turtle was flown to Houston on August 10 to continue his recovery. Initial evaluations at the Houston Zoo showed Rhossi to be active and vigorous, but a comprehensive medical examination, including X-rays and a CT scan, revealed lingering pneumonia. This condition, likely a result of enduring the frigid North Atlantic waters, means his return to the wild will be delayed. The Houston Zoo's veterinary team is providing ongoing treatment with the goal of eventually releasing him back into his natural habitat. 
