Loggerhead Turtle "Barnacle Bill" May Be Sent to Cape Verde Instead of Gran Canaria Due to Brexit Paperwork Issues

A loggerhead turtle named Barnacle Bill, rescued in Guernsey after Storm Ciarán hit in November, could have to be sent to Cape Verde instead of its planned destination of Gran Canaria.

The change in plans is due to Brexit-related paperwork issues, according to Steve Byrne, the manager of the Guernsey Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (GSPCA).

The GSPCA had originally intended to return Barnacle Bill to its natural habitat in Gran Canaria, but they have faced difficulties obtaining the required paperwork from Spanish authorities. Gran Canaria had previously taken in a loggerhead turtle from the GSPCA six years ago. However, Brexit and other complicated legislation have caused challenges in moving animals between the British Isles and the EU.

As an alternative option, Byrne said the turtle may have to be sent to Cape Verde, an archipelago off Africa's western coast. The GSPCA is still exploring Gran Canaria as a possibility, but the paperwork issues have forced them to consider other locations for Barnacle Bill's release.

Why this matters: The story of Barnacle Bill highlights the unexpected consequences and challenges that Brexit has created for animal welfare organizations. It underscores the importance of smooth international cooperation in conservation efforts and the need for clear, efficient processes for relocating rescued animals to their natural habitats.

Byrne emphasized that the GSPCA is working diligently to find the best solution for Barnacle Bill. "We are still exploring Gran Canaria as an option, but Brexit and other complicated legislation have caused challenges in moving animals in and out between the British Isles and the EU," he said. The organization remains committed to ensuring the loggerhead turtle is returned to an appropriate location, even if it means sending it to Cape Verde instead of its originally planned destination.

Key Takeaways

• Loggerhead turtle Barnacle Bill was rescued in Guernsey after Storm Ciarán.
• The planned release to Gran Canaria was delayed due to Brexit-related paperwork issues.
• An alternative option to release Barnacle Bill in Cape Verde is being considered.
• Brexit and complex legislation create challenges for animal welfare organizations.
• GSPCA working to find the best solution to return Barnacle Bill to its natural habitat.