‘Drea’ arrived at the ARCHELON’s Rescue Centre in May 2022 with a serious head injury. After months of intensive care and rehabilitation, she was able to return to the sea in October of the same year.

Unfortunately, after the recent bad weather conditions combined with all the other problems that sea turtles face, such as marine pollution from plastics, led "Andrea" to be found exhausted and injured on a beach in Alexandria, Egypt on November 15, 2024. Her identity was confirmed by the tag that had been placed on her fins before her release.

The turtle is not 104 years old, as has been reported in some sources. According to ARCHELON’s records, it concerns an adult female loggerhead turtle of approximately 30-40 years of age and her presence in Egypt appears normal, as it aligns with the typical migratory patterns of sea turtles in the Mediterranean.

Unfortunately, it is not legally possible to transfer the animal from another country to the ARCHELON’s Rescue Centre. Moreover, transporting an injured marine animal over such a long distance is extremely complicated and dangerous. 'Drea' is now at the Ashtoum ElGamil Protected Area, in the care of the people of the Egyptian Marine Creatures Protection and Rescue Team. We are grateful for their dedication and we provide guidance to help in her care.

The story of 'Drea' reminds us of the challenges that sea turtles face and the need to reduce their threats in the oceans. ARCHELON is monitoring Drea's condition and wholeheartedly wishes that she will overcome her injuries once again and return to the sea.

ARCHELON, a non-profit environmental organization, has been working for over 40 years to protect sea turtles in Greece. You can support our work on nesting beaches and at the Rescue Centre by making a donation or participating in our activities as a volunteer. Every help is valuable.