A sea turtle was returned to the ocean on Friday, July 18, after recovering from “ingesting plastic waste.”
The animal had been in treatment “over the past two months” after being found debilitated and taken to Zoomarine’s rehabilitation center, “where it received specialized veterinary care,” the Portuguese Navy stated in a note sent to newsrooms on Saturday.
“Its recovery was made possible through the joint efforts of marine biologists and veterinarians, who diagnosed the ingestion of various plastic fragments, a consequence of the increasing ocean pollution,” the entity added.
The Fast Patrol Boat (LFR) NRP Sagitário collaborated in the process of returning the animal to its natural habitat “with logistical and operational support,” showcasing the “commitment of the Portuguese Navy to marine environmental protection and active collaboration in environmental conservation actions,” the note stated.
“This joint action highlights the importance of partnerships between civilian and military entities in defending marine biodiversity while also alerting to the impacts of pollution on ocean ecosystems,” it concluded.
It is worth noting that on May 14 of this year, the turtle named Venus—honoring the goddess of love and beauty—was also returned to the sea after several months of rehabilitation at the Porto d’Abrigo do Zoomarine in Algarve.
The loggerhead turtle “was found floating, debilitated, off the coast of Cabo de Sines, on December 27, by a fisherman who promptly alerted the Alentejo Stranding Network (ARROJAL) team.”
Venus “showed blood and pulmonary alterations” but, after receiving treatment and recovering, “was ready to return to its natural habitat.”
“Venus arrived at Porto d’Abrigo in a debilitated state. She underwent detailed clinical exams, and a treatment plan was developed. The response was positive and gradual, allowing us to safely prepare her for this return to the sea. Each release is a moment of great significance for the entire team—it is the culmination of demanding work and the reinforcement of our commitment to marine life protection,” said the veterinary nurse responsible for Porto d’Abrigo do Zoomarine, Antonieta Nunes, at the time.
The animal was released 12 nautical miles from the coast, in an operation supported by the NRP Cassiopeia of the Portuguese Navy, which departed from the Naval Support Point of Portimão under the command of First Lieutenant Gonçalves Dias.
