Ocean-bound sea turtle receives public release after successful rehabilitation in Seal Beach
Green Sea Turtle Released Back into the Ocean in Seal Beach
A green sea turtle, found tangled in fishing gear in the San Gabriel River, was released back into the ocean in Seal Beach, California, after a three-month recovery. The event drew a crowd of about 30 people, including Brittany Stevens, an Aquarium of the Pacific veterinarian, and city representatives, lifeguards, and passing surfers.
The green sea turtle, which is a threatened species, was discovered in early July by workers from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. The fishing line was wrapped around its front flippers and cutting into its mouth. Veterinarians at Long Beach's Aquarium of the Pacific removed the fishing gear and sewed the wounds of the turtle.
The green sea turtle, named Katerina Portela, was taken to the Aquarium of the Pacific for treatment. Dawn Nygren-Burkert, the conservation volunteer coordinator at the aquarium, tracks sea turtle activity in the river area. Volunteer-led local aquarium monitoring and wetland restoration efforts help mitigate trash and urban waste as threats to the river and surrounding wetlands.
As the green sea turtle was being released, a little girl in the crowd screamed in delight as the turtle moved towards the people gathered on the sand. The crowd watched as the turtle swam out into the ocean, marking the end of a successful rescue and recovery effort.
The main threats to East Pacific green sea turtles in the San Gabriel River area are debris like fishing gear, boats, and accidental capture in fishing nets. The release of Katerina Portela highlights the importance of ongoing efforts to protect these vulnerable creatures and their habitats.
In a separate incident, scientists have noted instances of coyotes swimming in the San Francisco Bay near Angel Island, raising questions about the adaptability and resilience of these animals in the face of changing environmental conditions. However, the focus remains on efforts to protect and conserve endangered species like the green sea turtle, and the role that individuals and organizations can play in these efforts.
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