Sea turtle Molly released into the Atlantic after 20 years

Molly, a 120-kilogram Caretta caretta sea turtle, was released into the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Portimão, Portugal, following a 20-year period of human care. Originally rescued in Ireland with injuries to both front flippers, her return to the wild was initially deemed impossible.

After being transferred to the Zoomarine Algarve shelter in Portugal in May, Molly underwent a behavioral rehabilitation program to prepare her for survival in the wild. This process included assessing her swimming movements, autonomous feeding abilities, and environmental exploration.

The release operation was conducted aboard the NRP Oríon, a vessel from the Portuguese Navy, approximately 10 nautical miles from the coast. The successful return to her natural habitat was the result of a collaborative effort involving Zoomarine Algarve, Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium in Ireland, TAP Cargo, and the Portuguese Navy.