In a heartwarming display of marine conservation, the Two Oceans Aquarium Turtle Conservation Centre has successfully released four subadult turtles back into their natural habitat at the De Hoop Marine Protected Area (MPA) last week.
As shared by Cape ETC, these remarkable sea creatures—Nori, Stella, Pebbles, and Cinnamon embarked on a unique rehabilitation journey, each with its own captivating story of survival and resilience.
The day began with excitement at the Turtle Conservation Centre as the turtles were gently loaded onto vehicles for transport to the stunning beaches of De Hoop MPA.
Once they arrived, the turtles were carefully carried in specially designed stretchers to the water’s edge, where the ocean awaited their return.
As the summer warmth enveloped the coast, the conditions were deemed perfect for their reintegration into the marine environment—a momentous celebration for both the turtles and the devoted team that nurtured them back to health.
An inspiring journey of rehabilitation
Nori, a green turtle rescued from Witsand in 2023, faced a series of challenges during her time at the Centre. Initially appearing healthy, her swimming patterns raised concerns, leading the veterinary team to investigate.
A neurological examination revealed issues with her right eye’s responsiveness, although further tests showed both her eyes were fully functional. Despite these challenges, the determination of the team and Nori’s wilfulness allowed her to recover and return to the ocean.
Meanwhile, Stella’s journey began in October 2024, when she was found stranded on the shores of Plettenberg Bay. Covered in algae and immobile with injuries to her carapace, she required immediate attention.
With dedication and expertise, the Centre’s team treated her with a novel combination of honey, turmeric, and disinfectants, which helped her recover from a severe lung infection that once threatened her life.
After months of support, including antibiotics and stabilising procedures, Stella blossomed back into a vibrant turtle ready to embrace her freedom again.
Pebbles, another green turtle, showcased a remarkable comeback story, having once been thought dead after being found in Nature’s Valley. She barely survived her rescue, requiring artificial respiration to kickstart her breathing before eventually regaining strength through an intensive treatment programme.
With the aid of technological interventions such as oxygen therapy and a specially enriched diet—Her recovery lifted spirits at the Centre, culminating in a successful return to her ocean home.
Finally, the rehabilitation saga of Cinnamon, a hawksbill turtle, was nothing short of extraordinary.
Rescued from a tidal pool at Cape Point with a severe infection, she benefited from aggressive treatments and round-the-clock care that included wound cleaning and physiotherapy.
Her remarkable transformation from a weakened state to a spirited creature ready for the wild serves as a poignant reminder of the vital work being done to protect critically endangered species within South Africa’s shores.
Article shared by Cape ETC
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