Homer, a blind Caretta caretta sea turtle, dies in Cornwall

Archelon, the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece, has announced the death of Homer, a blind male Caretta caretta turtle. Homer was first discovered injured at Mavrovouni in Gytheio in 2007. Following his rescue, he was treated at the Archelon Rescue Centre, where experts determined that his vision could not be restored, making his return to the wild unsafe.

In 2010, Homer was relocated to the Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay, Cornwall, to ensure his long-term safety and well-being. Former Archelon volunteer Matthew Slater played a crucial role in his transport and reception. Homer resided at the aquarium for over 16 years, serving as a dedicated ambassador for sea turtles and helping educate thousands of visitors about the species and the environmental threats they face in their natural habitats. The organization expressed deep gratitude to the aquarium and the staff who provided him with a secure home for the remainder of his life.