Mumbai's oldest hawksbill turtle is recovering fast

Even as Mumbai's oldest and most popular hawksbill turtle has been showing signs of recovery after undergoing a major tumor removal surgery, chances of visitors getting to watch him swim at the Taraporewala Aquarium in Marine Drive, are now bleak.

Officials say he is recovering and the tumor was removed from his forehead in January. He was diagnosed with fibroma — a form of cancer. In April last year, the officials noticed a small growth near the turtle's forehead, after which he was no longer displayed to the public. After the surgery, the turtle was kept in quarantine under observation.

Dr Dinesh Vinherkar, a veterinarian, who is expert on turtles and had performed the surgery, said, "It's heartening to see him healing at a good pace. The removal of the tumor, however, has left an empty on his forehead. Though it has been healing, a peanut size hole remains, and it will take a few more months for all the tissues to regrow completely."

He said that he has been keeping a regular tab on the health of the turtle and it is very energetic, fit and was eating and swimming properly, too.

In 2017, the officials saw that tumor was growing rapidly and affecting its eyes, calling for immediate attention.

Hawksbills are named so for their narrow and pointed beaks. They are a highly-endangered species. It was found and rescued by fishermen who had handed it to the aquarium officials. It was decided that it will be kept for display.