A sea turtle, named Nuca, has successfully returned to the ocean after being rescued from Torrevieja harbour in February. This morning’s release took place from a boat in Torrevieja waters, featuring participation from local officials, including the Mayor, Eduardo Dolón, and environmental professionals. Dolón praised the Oceanogràfic team for their dedication to Nuca’s recovery and looks forward to its potential return for nesting in local beaches.

Nuca was discovered trapped in the harbour, relying on fish scraps for sustenance. Expert divers from Oceanogràfic, along with local biologists, managed her capture and quickly identified her severe condition. Nuca had one flipper amputated from a previous injury and a fishing hook lodged in her oesophagus, requiring delicate surgery and rehabilitation.

Veterinarians performed an endoscopy to remove the hook, subsequently initiating a treatment plan for her recovery. Nuca’s impressive progress over the following months confirmed her readiness to return to the sea, where she can resume her natural behaviours.

Before her release, the veterinary team equipped Nuca with a satellite transmitter, allowing real-time tracking of her movements post-rehabilitation. This effort seeks to collect valuable data regarding her behaviour and migration patterns, contributing to improved conservation strategies for sea turtles, supported by the Biodiversity Foundation and the European Union.