Two loggerhead turtles, Em and Atua, have been making their triumphant way across the Mediterranean since their release from Xrobb l-Ghagin Wildlife Rehab Centre at the end of September.

Both turtles were brought to the centre three years ago with severe injuries. Em, found on June 12th 2021, was entangled in marine debris and had swallowed a fishing hook and line. Unfortunately, gangrene in one of her front flippers led to its amputation. Similarly, Atua was rescued on October 20th, 2021, also entangled in debris, suffering severe injuries to both front flippers and losing one due to the damage.

After years of rehabilitation, both turtles made a remarkable recovery and were released back into the sea on September 28th this year. Since then, they have been navigating the Mediterranean, with tracking data showing them near the latitude of Agrigento, Sicily. Their non-linear swimming paths, as mapped by the trackers, reveal they have already swum hundreds of kilometers, a testament to their healing and resilience.

While this story has a happy ending, it highlights the devastating impact of discarded marine debris on wildlife. The injuries these turtles endured took years to rehabilitate, serving as a reminder of the importance of protecting our oceans.

Wishing Em and Atua the best of luck on the rest of their journey!