Two loggerhead sea turtles released into Mediterranean in Spain

Two Caretta caretta sea turtles were released back into the Mediterranean Sea at Varadero beach in Santa Pola, Spain, on October 8, 2026. This event marked the end of their stay at the ARCA del Mar center, where they had received specialized care following their rescue in Benidorm and Valencia. The Oceanogràfic Foundation organized the release in partnership with the Ministry of Agriculture, local authorities, and the fishing sector, emphasizing the importance of community involvement in protecting marine life.

After undergoing a full recovery at the Oceanogràfic Recovery Center, the turtles joined a broader initiative to restore loggerhead populations throughout the region. This ongoing work recently saw four other loggerhead turtles released at Carabassí beach. Success in these recovery efforts depends on the collaboration of various stakeholders, including local fishermen who play a vital role by quickly reporting any encounters with protected species.

The Santa Pola Fishermen's Guild and the local fishing sector have been instrumental in the early detection of turtles that become caught in fishing gear. Their proactive response ensures that animals receive the necessary care in a timely manner before being returned to their natural habitat. To facilitate this, the Oceanogràfic Foundation operates a specific recovery program at ARCA del Mar, coordinating with administrations and marine professionals to improve the effectiveness of these conservation measures.

This recent release is more than a successful rehabilitation; it also highlights the strength of local partnerships in marine conservation. The Oceanogràfic Foundation, the Santa Pola City Council, and the Aquarium of the Sea Museum work together to protect marine biodiversity through a shared strategy. These organizations are committed to initiatives that focus on conservation, research, and environmental education to protect species and the wider ecosystem.

Moving forward, the Oceanogràfic Foundation and the fishing sector aim to maintain a balance between fishing activities and the conservation of marine biodiversity. Such cooperation is essential for the health of the ecosystem and the survival of the loggerhead turtle. Future releases and rehabilitation projects will build on this collaborative framework, with the goal of encouraging sustainable practices that benefit both the fishing community and marine wildlife.