North Carolina green turtle, found stranded with 1.5 pounds of barnacles and algae, stunned rescuers at Cape Hatteras National Seashore. The Sea Turtle Assistance and Rehabilitation Center staff uncovered her shell beneath a crusty layer of epibiota—nature’s most committed cling-ons. “Already looking much more active,” the team quipped, as the turtle emerged from her accidental camouflage with spa-day energy.

After removing barnacles and sea creatures, the young turtle’s transformation wowed aquarium staff. The juvenile was brought back from the brink, her shell finally free in the North Carolina Aquarium’s care. The marine rescue team called it “a heavy load of epibiota”—proof that even turtles can get weighed down by social obligations. She’s now reportedly swimming stronger than ever, ready to dodge future barnacle freeloaders.

Green sea turtles can host over a pound of epibiota—nature’s version of an unwanted house party—if stranded too long.