A heartwarming scene unfolded at Ġnejna Bay as four rehabilitated sea turtles; Axil, Gabrielle, Chiquito, and Arielle made their triumphant return to the sea.

The release marked the culmination of months of care and dedication at the rehabilitation centre in Xrobb l-Għaġin, Marsaxlokk, managed by Nature Trust Malta and the Wildlife Rescue Team Malta.

Each turtle’s story is one of resilience and recovery. Chiquito arrived unable to dive, likely due to an infection caused by ingested plastic, but after treatment began diving and eating normally again.

Gabrielle suffered a severe entanglement on her rear flipper - half of which was saved thanks to the team’s quick intervention.

Arielle had swallowed a fishing hook and line, which she finally expelled naturally after 16 months of rehabilitation.

Meanwhile, Axil, who has a natural rear flipper defect, was treated surgically after ingesting a hook and is now healthy once more.

The event celebrated not only the turtles’ release but also the tireless efforts of volunteers and conservationists who make such recoveries possible.

Together, we can protect Malta’s marine life and keep our seas clean.