In Celebration of Sea Turtles

With a focus on awareness, protection and conservation, each June marks Sea Turtle Week. However, at our dedicated Turtle Hospital at the multi-purpose Umah Lumba Center in West Bali, Indonesia, every day is a day to celebrate these remarkable reptiles.

Bobby, an endangered green sea turtle is released back into the ocean. Credit: DolphinProject.com

Did you know ➡️ sea turtles have lived in the world’s oceans for millions of years, and can be found in all oceanic bodies with the exception of the polar regions.

At our Turtle Hospital, our on-the-ground team is equipped to respond to calls of injured or distressed turtles. Here, the turtles receive assessment and treatment, and when deemed healthy enough, can be released back into their native waters.

Since 2023, the team, led by Dolphin Project’s Indonesia Campaign Director Femke den Haas has rescued a total of 213 sea turtles, including Hawksbill turtles (critically endangered), green sea turtles (endangered), Brazilian red cheeked turtles (a species not native to Indonesia), and olive ridley turtles (vulnerable). This year alone, the number rescued is already at 59. With the exception of a few sea turtles that have passed away, we are pleased to report that the majority have been successfully treated and released.

Sadly, for food and cultural reasons, the illegal trade of endangered green sea turtles for their meat continues in Bali, with multiple raids to rescue the reptiles having already taken place.

“Traders collect the sea turtles from poachers from other Indonesian islands. The reptiles suffer from ruthless capture methods and are often seriously injured in the process.” ~ Femke den Haas

After six months of intensive rehabilitation and medical care, Lucky, an endangered green sea turtle is successfully released back into the ocean, Umah Lumba Center, West Bali, Indonesia. Credit: DolphinProject.com

Read Lucky’s story of perseverence here.

While our primary work is centered on dolphin rehabilitation, release and conservation, we are pleased to offer medical assistance and programs for a variety of species, along with community outreach programs designed to help local people and animals.

How you can help ➡️ please consider supporting our crucial work by symbolically Adopting a Turtle! 

 

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Featured image: Rescued endangered green sea turtle, Coco. Credit: DolphinProject.com