Shalom, an endangered softshelled turtle, was rescued from the Jordan River during Sukkot after his beak became entangled in abandoned fishing wire.
The rare turtle was recovered by the Nature and Parks Authority and subsequently received medical treatment at the Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund (KKL-JNF) Hula Valley Wildlife Acclimation Center.
While at the center, Shalom underwent an X-ray, which revealed he swallowed multiple fishing hooks left behind by anglers.
Shalom received a dose of antibiotics and painkillers and was then transferred into the care of the National Sea Turtle Rescue Center in Mikhmoret.
“Many aquatic turtles arrive here injured by fishing hooks, a situation that endangers their lives," explained Dr. Rona Nadler Valency, Director of KKL-JNF’s Hula Valley Wildlife Acclimation Center. "However, this is the first time we’ve received a softshell turtle. Due to the species’ sensitivity and the wonderful cooperation with the Sea Turtle Rescue Center, we managed to bring the turtle to optimal condition for the surgery and rehabilitation it needed. The attentiveness of the hikers and the dedication of the volunteers is truly heartwarming."
Guy Ivgi, Head Caregiver at The National Sea Turtle Rescue Center, added: “At first, we knew that the softshell turtle, which was named Shalom, arrived with injuries caused by fishing hooks. The X-rays showed several hooks—two fishing hooks in the esophagus that were removed surgically, and another in the digestive system that we decided to leave, as it’s expected to pass naturally without medical intervention."
The goal is for Shalom to return to the wild after a recovery period in the center’s rehabilitation pool.
About the softshell turtle
The softshell turtle is a rare species that feeds on fish, invertebrates, and even carcasses of birds and mammals. It inhabits freshwater habitats.
The Nile softshell turtle, Trionyx triunguis, is one of three major populations of this species in the Mediterranean basin.
Past surveys have calculated their number at about 500 or fewer, according to the Nature and Parks Authority.