Yesterday was another moment of celebration in Malta’s ongoing efforts to protect marine wildlife, as two rescued loggerhead turtles – Belle and Manuela – were successfully released back into the sea at Ġnejna Bay.

Organised by Nature Trust Malta, this release was the first one for 2025, just as the nesting season for turtles begins, as summer makes a slow approach.  

Belle’s journey began when she was found entangled in plastic string at Għadira Bay – a sobering reminder of the threats marine animals face due to human waste. Meanwhile, Manuela had swallowed a significant amount of plastic debris and was spotted floating helplessly at the surface near Xlendi. Thankfully, a vigilant fisherman reported her condition, and she was quickly taken in for rehabilitation.

Both turtles spent months recovering at the Xrobb l-Għaġin Nature Park and Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, where they were cared for by experts until they were healthy enough to return to the open sea.

Yesterday’s release was supported by nature stewards from Ambjent Malta and the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) – well done to everyone involved in their rescue, healing and release!

Best of luck, Belle and Manuela!