This is the moment six endangered turtles are exhibited to a huge crowd of well wishers before being released into the sea after being rescued by fishermen who found them stuck in nets.
Roberto Ubieta, 56, and Alejo Vera, 23, found the turtles in their nets while fishing off the coast of San Clemente de Tuyu in the eastern Argentine province of Buenos Aires.
They took them to the Mundo Marino Foundation where animal experts attended to the six marine turtles.
Video Credit: CEN/Fundacion Mundo Marino
They reportedly needed two to four weeks for recovery prior to their release.
Reports said that the rescued reptiles were green sea turtles (Chelonia mydas), which are categorised as ‘endangered’ on the red list of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
According to foundation members, three of the turtles defecated plastic and it is believed that they ate rubbish in the sea before becoming entangled in the fishing nets.
The reptiles were released into the sea in front of a large crowd who gathered on the beach, as seen in the footage.
Marine biologist Karina Alvarez said: “The important thing is to highlight the fishermen’s cooperation. They were aware of the species’ vulnerability and immediately contacted us.
“Sadly, marine turtles have two major threats: industrial fishing nets and rubbish, especially plastic.
“The plastic caused many health problems and prevented the turtles from migrating to warmer waters. Instead, they approached our coast with signs of hypothermia.”
To find out more about the author, editor or agency that supplied this story – please click below.
Story By: Ana Lacasa, Sub-Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Central European News
