Friday, August 15, 2025

Funderwhoopee Friday ~ Panchita

 

She arrived wounded, alone, and exhausted… Panchita, a sea lion from the Galápagos Islands, dragged herself to the shores of Santa Cruz island, right in front of a hotel. Her body bore painful marks from a fishing net , and she could barely move. Many thought she wouldn’t survive... but life had other plans. 

 The staff at Finch Bay Hotel didn’t turn away. With care, food , and time, they treated her injuries and gave her space to recover. For over three months, Panchita stayed nearby, regaining her strength day by day. Under the supervision of Galápagos National Park rangers, they made sure to respect her as a wild animal, offering help without interfering with her nature. 

But what happened next left everyone speechless... 

After she returned to the ocean , Panchita didn’t disappear like most wild animals do. She came back.  Every morning, she swims freely through the deep blue, but always returns to the same spot where she was once saved. She climbs onto the deck, picks her favorite chair , and naps under the warm Galápagos sun  — just like any regular guest.

 Panchita has become a living reminder of empathy between species — and of how even wild animals can recognize kindness. Today, she is known by many tourists and locals, and she has even had pups since her recovery .

This story is not just about healing… it’s about the invisible bonds that love and compassion can create. 

 Source: ABC News



2 comments:

Put it here ... I can't wait to read it. I have the Captcha turned OFF but blogger insists it be there. You should be able to bypass it.

** Anonymous, please use a name at the end of your comment. You're all starting to look alike.

*** Moderation has been added due to Spam and a Commenter a little too caustic. I welcome comments, but talk of killing and racist (or even close to racist) are not welcome.