Grottammare to release rehabilitated sea turtle Love

A young Caretta caretta sea turtle named Love is scheduled to be released back into the sea on Saturday, September 19, at 11:00 AM on the beach in front of Piazza Kursaal in Grottammare.

Love was originally recovered on April 2 near the shoreline of Porto d’Ascoli in critical condition. At the time of discovery, the 31-centimeter turtle suffered from severe hypothermia, anemia, liver dysfunction, and a deep hemorrhagic laceration affecting both the carapace and plastron. X-rays also revealed a displaced fracture in the right scapular region.

The turtle was urgently transferred to the Fondazione Cetacea Sea Turtle Hospital in Riccione for specialized rehabilitation. Following months of intensive treatment, the turtle has fully recovered, with the liver function stabilized, the deep wound healed, and the fracture mended. This release marks a significant milestone for the Grottammare Marine Turtle Center, as Love is the first turtle recovered through its local activities.