Green Turtle 'Pieros' Returns to the Sea After Recovery

An adult male green turtle, known as 'Pieros,' has returned healthy to its natural environment after a month of treatment at the Marine Turtle Rescue Centre of the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research.

The release took place on July 31, in the presence of children and adults at the 'Thalassa' Museum, offering a unique experiential experience. 'Pieros' was transferred on June 27 to the Cyprus Marine Aquaculture Research Centre in Meneou, with symptoms of exhaustion and buoyancy problems.

After successful treatment, it was found that he could swim, dive, and feed without assistance. His reintegration took place within the framework of the LIFE ADAPTS program, which aims to preserve protected marine species, such as Caretta caretta and Chelonia mydas turtles, as well as the Mediterranean seal Monachus monachus.

The program includes innovative techniques, such as the use of satellite telemetry, eDNA, drones, and camera traps, while also promoting the participation of volunteers and citizen scientists from Cyprus, Italy, and Greece. The event was also attended by 11 educators from European Union countries, who were informed about the Department's actions, the protection of marine biodiversity, and the educational programs implemented to raise environmental awareness.

CYPE