By Elizabeth Hunter
One of the world's rarest sea turtles has been rescued after washing up on UK shores - 3,000 miles from home.
The Kemp's Ridley turtle was found on the Isle of Tiree on Sunday 19 October, in a state of shock from the cold water.
A critically endangered species, and one of the rarest species of sea turtle in the world, they are typically found along the east coast of the USA and Mexico.
Isle of Tiree Ranger Hayley Douglas, who responded to the call and rescued the turtle, believes it was blown off course due to strong winds from Storm Amy.
Hayley took the turtle home, where she slowly began to warm it in order to not further shock its system.
She said: "Turtles aren't native to our shores - but there have been a few turning up in the last few weeks, mainly due to the weather.
"The big problem we have when they do come to shore is that our waters are a lot colder.
"They will either have passed away from cold water shock, or will be suffering from cold water shock, which is what's happened with this particular turtle.
"It's incredibly important they aren't warmed too quickly so she was placed in a box with a towel and kept in my porch as my house was too warm for her.
"It's around a two-degree temperature increase at a time that they can handle."
The turtle is now on its way to the SeaLife centre in Loch Lomond, where specialist staff will ensure its well-being until it can be returned to its natural habitat.
There are an estimated 7,000 to 9,000 nesting female Kemp's Ridley turtles in the world, with the species considered endangered since the 1970s.
Hayley added: "The most important thing to do if someone finds a turtle like this is not to put it back in the water, because it will die.
"Secondly, do not heat it up too quickly.
"Phone the British Divers Marine Life Rescue, who will be able to arrange care and give advice to members of the public.
"Keep an eye on the beach, because you never know what could turn up after a storm.
"This could happen anywhere along the coast, so people should stay aware."
FOX41 Yakima©FOX11 TriCities©