The Lanzarote Cabildo, through the Wildlife Rescue Service, returned a loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) to the ocean that had been rescued last March between the beaches of Cocoteros and Charco del Palo. The release, conducted on Friday 19 September, marks the end of a six-month recovery process.
The turtle was found with injuries on both front flippers and its left hind flipper. After being taken to a veterinary clinic, specialists diagnosed the need to amputate the left hind flipper to ensure its survival.
Following this, the turtle was transferred to the Costa Teguise aquarium, where it completed its rehabilitation to reach optimal conditions for returning to its natural habitat.
120 Animals Treated This Year
The Councillor for the Environment, Samuel Martín, explained that this specimen is part of the numerous species rescued each year on the island. “Currently, we have another nine turtles undergoing rehabilitation,” he detailed. The island representative highlighted that these actions not only aid in the conservation of endangered species but also raise public awareness about the importance of protecting the marine environment.
Between January and May 2025, the Wildlife Rescue Service has attended to 120 animals from 30 different species, of which 90% are resident or migratory birds. During this period, 13 loggerhead turtles and one skink were recorded. Of those, 46 specimens have been returned to nature, while 19 continue to receive treatment for their future release.
The Cabildo reminds the public that when encountering an injured wild animal, they should notify the number 696 733 177 so that the specialised service can proceed with its collection and care.
This collaboration is essential to increase the survival chances of threatened species, especially in an insular territory where marine wildlife is particularly vulnerable to human impacts such as litter, fishing, and plastics.
