The turtle had no way of knowing what a fishhook was. Yet one day, without warning, something sharp pierced the roof of the turtle’s mouth. The turtle couldn’t dislodge it. Couldn’t eat. Could only endure the pain and wait. When the fishermen who had accidentally hooked the turtle couldn’t remove it themselves, a compassionate bystander contacted Animal Rahat, and the rescue team whisked the Indian Softshell Turtle to receive veterinary treatment.

This ancient, protected species had become an accidental victim of what is known as bycatch, animals unintentionally caught or injured by fishing nets and hooks. Discarded fishing equipment is a major hazard to wildlife, and Animal Rahat’s teams have seen firsthand the harm it causes. 

The Animal Rahat veterinary team carefully administered anaesthesia, then gently removed the embedded hook, careful not to cause any additional wound. For five days, the team watched over the turtle’s recovery. With each passing day, the turtle grew healthier and stronger until finally, the resilient survivor was ready for a second chance at life. Released at the bank of the Krishna River, the turtle swiftly paddled away into the water.

This World Oceans Day, remember, fishing hurts fish, and it also hurts countless turtles, birds and other “non-target” species. Help us help more animals like this: