THE ADVENTURE OF “ELPIDA” PROVIDES HOPE
Few days ago, a sea turtle found injured on 23 May 2009, was released on Crete, in Stavromenos beach (Skaletta), after 4 months of treatment at ARCHELONʼs Rescue Centre. Unable to swim after a heavy wound on head, became stranded and was fortunate enough to be found by the nature-lover Mr Papathanassis who transported her in his own car to ARCHELONʼs Rescue Centre in Glyfada. Examination revealed a hook and a deep wound on head, most probably inflicted intentionally after capture. The turtle had no hope for survival, since she was unable to swim and feed. Nevertheless the Centreʼs leader and volunteers believed in her rescue, named her ELPIDA (Hope in Greek) and worked very hard for her survival. The Centreʼs vet managed to take out the hook and with the appropriate treatment the deep wound on the head started to be healed.
The release was attended by more than 300 residents and tourists, including 150 students from the local primary school, to whom the release was devoted. From the part of local authorities the Mayor and members of the local Municipal Council (Arkadi) were present, while the Mayor of Rethymno has sent a congratulation letter.
ELPIDA is carrying messages from the responsible fishers who cooperate with ARCHELON in salvaging injured sea turtles, as well as from the people who assist in several ways in the protection efforts for sea turtles.
Finally, ELPIDA represents the Hope and Faith in the 25 years of ARCHELONʼs work for the conservation of sea turtles in Greece.(DM)
«DANIEL» rescued by ChelonoParea's members
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