Sea turtles released at Playa de Palma after rescue and recovery
It’s early on a warm summer morning at Playa de Palma. The sea is still, the sand still undisturbed, before the crowds arrive. A group of people has gathered by the shoreline as they are waiting to witness something quite special—efforts dedicated to saving sea turtles in the Balearics.
A van pulls up and its doors swing open. Three large boxes are gently lifted out and carried towards the beach. Inside are Trufa, Melby, and Blanca; three loggerhead sea turtles. They were found earlier this year in Balearic waters, entangled in plastic, dehydrated, or injured. But now, after months of care and rehabilitation at the Palma Aquarium Foundation, they are strong enough to return home.
One by one, the turtles are carried to the shore. Divers wait in the shallows to observe how they respond, checking that they behave as they should. This is their return home, to the place they belong. Once they disappear into the sea, Islander reporter Marlot Cathalina can’t help but fear what will lie ahead for Trufa, Melby and Blanca; the sea holds many threats, especially if you’re a sea turtle. But for now, at least, they’ve been given what the foundation calls ‘una segunda oportunidad’: a second chance.
Inside the Recovery Centre of Palma Aquarium Foundation
Earlier that week, The Islander team was welcomed backstage at the Recovery Centre, at Palma Aquarium. The Palma Aquarium Foundation is the only organisation responsible for assisting stranded marine wildlife in the Balearic Islands.
Historically, Spain’s coastline was considered a non-nesting or occasional nesting area for sea turtles. But climate change is shifting that pattern. Since 2014, nesting activity has increased and in 2019 the Balearic Islands recorded their first loggerhead nest.
At the Recovery Centre, each rescued turtle (named by its finder) is placed in its own saltwater bath, labeled with the date and location it was found. Many turtles arrive entangled in fishing gear or suffering from internal issues like plastic ingestion or pneumonia. The team provides everything from surgery to remove plastic to daily care. On average, they stay for about two months in the Recovery Centre before being ready to return to the sea.
Yacht owners and crew: Extra eyes on the water
In 2024, 36% of rescued turtles were admitted due to entanglement (source: Palma Aquarium Foundation). Debora Morrison, the foundation’s director, is clear about one thing: raising awareness and sharing accurate information is essential. Yacht owners and crew can play a vital role in helping turtles in need, as every set of eyes on the water matters. Knowing and sharing this protocol is a direct way to protect marine life in the Balearics.
What to do if you spot a sea turtle in trouble
Do’s
- Call 112 immediately and ask for marine animal rescue.
- If possible, and safe, bring the turtle onboard, especially if it’s entangled or floating.
- Keep it in the shade and cover the body with a wet towel except for the head.
- Wait for instructions from the rescue team.
Don’ts
DO NOT UNTANGLE IT
DO NOT REMOVE THE HOOKS
DO NOT FLIP IT OVER
Important: Do not try to remove nets or pull-on yarns or ropes yourself. Even with good intentions, you might unintentionally cause more harm, possibly putting the animal’s life at risk. The best course of action is to wait for professionals to arrive.
You can help!
Support the Palma Aquarium Foundation:
– Book a backstage tour (and visit the Recovery Centre!)
– Join the volunteer team
– Follow @palma_aquarium_fundacion on Instagram
– Donate via palmaaquarium.com to support marine conservation, education, and research
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