The Generalitat Valenciana Reintroduces Sea Turtles to the Mediterranean
Another coastal milestone marks the return of caretta caretta sea turtles to the waters off El Puig in Valencia. A year after the initial nest release on September 28, 2021, these hatchlings have begun their life at sea, following the growth and re-entry program carried out at the Oceanogràfic facilities in Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències in Valencia.
Eight of the released turtles carry satellite transmitters, a collaboration supported by the El Puig City Council, the University of Valencia, the Life-Med Turtles project, and the Oceanogràfic Foundation. The tracking data will help researchers map their migratory paths and deepen understanding of their behavior and biology, providing essential information for ongoing conservation efforts.
The release of the nearly two-kilogram youngsters into the shoreline sand was led by Luisa Salvador, the mayor of El Puig, together with councilors responsible for Beaches and Environment, Marc Oriola and Fernando Checa, and by Celia Calabuig and Julio Monreal, deputies from Ciutat de les Arts i les Ciències. Also participating were members of the Sagunt Environmental Education Center, TragsaTEC staff, technicians from the Ministry and the University of Valencia, and representatives from the Oceanographic Foundation who form part of the Valencia Community Stranding Network.
There were approximately 50 schoolchildren from CEIP Guillem d’Entença and CEIP Pare Jofré who bid farewell to the fourteen turtles. The El Puig Local Police and Civil Guard also assisted with nest intervention as part of this first voyage to the sea.
These young animals, emerging from the nest with proper size, weight, and the skills needed for swimming, diving, and feeding, were positioned to maximize survival chances against natural predators. The process aligns with the broader program to ensure each hatchling has a strong start on its sea journey.
The early results inspire confidence. The observed survival rate after release hovers around ninety percent, signaling a successful contribution to the species’ conservation.
In 2021, the El Puig nest contributed a total of 120 eggs. About 70 hatchlings are believed to have entered the sea as part of the ongoing initiatives. The Oceanogràfic rescue team collected fourteen youngsters still in the nursery and transferred them to the Oceanogràfic facilities to join the growth program known as the Inception project. This effort highlights the value of hands-on care and scientifically guided reintroduction.
Public involvement remains vital when turtle nesting is documented on beaches. Early notification to 112 supports the activation of the Valencian Community Stranding Network, ensuring a rapid, coordinated response to protect these vulnerable creatures.
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