Two loggerhead turtles were released back to the sea today by Nature Trust (Malta) after being rehabilitated at the San Lucjan Centre.  

The two turtles, named Duygu and Hilal, and were rescued in August this year with an infection and hook injuries respectively.  After being operated on by Dr Anthony Gruppetta to remove the hook, they were medicated, fed and cared for by NTM rehabilitation volunteers.

The marine turtles were released from Gnejna Bay this morning and both turtles were microchipped for record purposes.  NTM is now working with other Mediterranean rehab centres on the development of an intelligent microchip system which is being designed to keep data records of turtle movements.

All wildlife Rescue volunteers are covered by a permit from the Environment Resource Authority.  This year alone, 22 turtles have so far been rescued.  NTM appeals to all who find turtles not to pull or cut any lines found with the turtle as this often results in further injures to the animal and may cause death. 

The NTM Wildlife Rescue has an emergency line which can be called at any time -99999505. Members of the public can also help by adopting a turtle were the costs of adoption go towards the rehabilitation of such animals.