15/06/2011

A new beginning for “Damaskinia” and “Marilena”

Since the beginning of 2011 we have been recording a high number of stranded turtles from all over the coasts of Greece.

We also received an unusual high number of turtles at the rescue centre. 7 turtles were sent to Glyfada over the course of 3 days. Unfortunately one dies on arrival and another passed away after a week.

The best news of the past weeks is we were able to release our first three turtles of the year!

When the temperature reached 18 degrees she was moved to a bigger tank and observed for 2 weeks. We organized her release offshore in collaboration with AQUA DIVERS CLUB. This diving center has helped us release many turtles offshore essentially the smaller ones and the ones missing a flipper, ensuring a safer return to the sea.

AQUA DIVERS CLUB also organized a weekend event with ARCHELON, reinforcing the close collaboration between divers and sea turtles. They have offered to sponsor our big tank through donations from their students.

We hope to increase awareness and promote environmental responsibility with these actions.

mia-nea-arxh-gia-thn-damaskhnia-kai-th-marilena-Marilena.jpg

She was found on the 04/05/10 with a head injury and named after the little daughter of Voula Avlonitis who works for a local animal welfare society.

This loggerhead (Caretta caretta) female has a curved carapace length of 66cm and a weight of 35kg (on arrival).

A little over a year later, with constant medical therapy and hard work from our volunteers, she was ready to go. Prior to her release though, we transferred her to a larger tank in order to observe her behaviour. After 2 weeks it was clear that she could go.

We took her down to Legrena beach and watched her leave in the sunset.

Turtles, we wish you all the best and a safe life!

Pavlos Tsaros

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