Rescued loggerhead turtle heads back into the sea at Calblanque

The first adult loggerhead turtle of the year treated at the El Valle Wildlife Recovery Centre was returned to the Mediterranean

The adult female turtle was spotted swimming at the surface near the La Azohía tuna trap fishery. Staff raised the alarm and she was quickly taken to the local fishermen's guild, where she was assessed by a vet from the wildlife recovery centre. 

From there, she was moved to the Wildlife Recovery Centre in El Valle, where experts confirmed she had no serious injuries and did not require specific treatment. She was kept under observation for a period, mainly to make sure she was strong enough and fully fit before being returned to the wild.

Once cleared, she was fitted with a small subcutaneous microchip, which will allow scientists to identify her again if she is ever found in the future. It forms part of ongoing work to better understand the movements of loggerhead turtles and the threats they face in the Mediterranean.

 The release took place in Calblanque Regional Park, chosen for its calm conditions and relatively undisturbed coastline. 

Speaking at the release, regional officials spoke about the importance of quick action from the public and coastal workers. In cases like this, every report can make a real difference, especially when turtles are found disoriented, tangled in fishing gear or struggling near the surface.

They also reminded the public of the basic guidance if a turtle is spotted: keep a distance of at least 20 metres, avoid standing in its line of sight, don't shine lights or use flash photography, and call 112 immediately so trained teams can respond.

The turtle had been treated at El Valle Wildlife Recovery Centre, which plays a key role in caring for injured or at-risk wildlife across the region before they are returned to the sea.

This release also forms part of the 'Turtle Territory' programme, which has been running since 2017. It brings together volunteers, fishermen, environmental groups and local authorities, all working towards protecting a species still classed as vulnerable.

Since records began, dozens of rehabilitated turtles, alongside many hatched on local beaches, have been successfully returned to the Mediterranean, a trend officials say is only possible thanks to continued public awareness and cooperation along the coastline.

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Image: CARM