Fuerteventura celebrates return of rescued sea turtles thanks to community effort

Fuerteventura Island Council, through its Department of the Environment, released five Caretta caretta (loggerhead) sea turtles back into the ocean on Tuesday. The turtles had been rescued and rehabilitated with the help of vigilant citizens and local businesses.

The release took place at the scenic Corralejo Grandes Playas, with those who originally reported the injured turtles participating in the event. Councilor Carlos Rodríguez, who was also present, highlighted the importance of involving the public in conservation efforts. “What makes today special,” he said, “is that the very people who reported and helped rescue the turtles are now part of their journey back home.”

The turtles had suffered injuries from being entangled in nets and raffia sacks or from ingesting fishing hooks. They received specialized care at the Morro Jable Sea Turtle Recovery and Conservation Center before being deemed fit for release.

The initiative forms part of the Island Council’s “Back Home” project, which falls under the broader “Know to Protect” environmental education program. The project aims to raise awareness about the fragility of marine life and the role citizens can play in its protection.

Adding to the significance of the day, companies such as Barracuda Perdomo and El Majorero, along with marine biology students associated with them, played a key role in the turtles’ rescue and joined the release event.

The Island Council reiterated the importance of public collaboration in protecting wildlife. Authorities reminded citizens to call emergency number 112 if they come across any injured animals in the wild.

Tuesday’s event served not only as a moment of triumph for environmental conservation but also as a testament to the power of community action in safeguarding Fuerteventura’s marine biodiversity.