Sea turtles released in Italy after rescue from marine debris

Two young Caretta caretta sea turtles have been released back into the sea in Italy following successful rehabilitation efforts after being injured by marine debris.

In the Lazio region, a turtle named Fortuna was released at Palidoro beach. Rescued in Maccarese on July 30, the turtle had been suffering from a severe infection and was unable to feed properly because a fishing hook and line were lodged in its mouth. After one month of treatment at the Zoomarine First Aid Center for marine turtles, the turtle regained significant weight and was returned to its natural habitat in the presence of regional officials and children from the Bambino Gesù Pediatric Hospital.

In the Adriatic Sea, another turtle named Elisabeth was released after being found trapped in abandoned waste. The rescue, involving the Cetacea Foundation and local students, highlighted the impact of marine pollution. The release served as an environmental education event, emphasizing the importance of protecting marine ecosystems from human-made debris.