Vénus, a loggerhead turtle known scientifically as ‘caretta caretta’, was released back into the sea on Wednesday after undergoing extensive rehabilitation at the Porto d’Abrigo facility in Zoomarine, Algarve.
The turtle, named after the goddess of love and beauty, was found floating and weak near Cape Sines on December 27 by a fisherman. The fisherman promptly alerted the Alentejo Stranding Network team (ARROJAL) to the turtle’s condition.
Subsequently, Vénus was transported to the Porto d’Abrigo Zoomarine facility, where a team of veterinarians provided care and attention.
During her rehabilitation, Vénus exhibited both blood and pulmonary abnormalities but recovered sufficiently to return to her natural habitat.
“She was subjected to detailed clinical examinations, and a treatment plan was established. The response was positive and gradual, enabling us to safely prepare her for returning to the sea. Each release is a moment of great significance for the entire team,” stated Antonieta Nunes, the veterinary nurse in charge at Porto d’Abrigo Zoomarine.
The operation to return the turtle to the sea was carried out 12 nautical miles off the coast, facilitated by the Portuguese Navy vessel NRP Cassiopeia.
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