News from Newquay
Rescued Turtles back in the swim
The two loggerhead turtles, James and Dink, were painstakingly nursed back to health at the Blue Reef Aquarium in Newquay after both were found stranded and close to death earlier this year.
The release is the final triumphant stage in their remarkable four month recovery.
Blue Reef curator, Matt Slater, who accompanied the turtles on their trip said he was overjoyed to watch them return to the wild:
"When they first came in it really was touch and go whether they would survive but to see them both in prime condition powering their way out to sea was incredibly emotional.
"Dink, the smaller of the two, had effectively doubled in weight since he came in and James has also put on lots of muscle which will stand them in good stead as they get used to being back in the open ocean."
The turtles were flown out to a release site on Gran Canaria for free by holiday operators Thomas Cook. Before departing the animals were fitted with microchips by vet Steve Philp from the Clifton Villa Veterinary Surgery in Newquay.
Steve has played a key role in the turtles' recovery and is also extremely pleased with how they have recovered.
"The chips will mean that if the turtles ever come into contact with humans again they will be able to be identified and a record kept of their movements and development post-release," explained Matt.
"It was a very emotional moment when I finally got to say goodbye to them but an amazing reward for the efforts of everyone involved in their rescue and rehabilitation," he added.
