Hong Kong conservation authorities free rescued sea turtle kept for nearly a year in care
Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department found injured turtle in local waters in October 2022 and will continue to track its progress
Hong Kong conservation authorities have released a rescued green turtle – among the only endangered sea turtle species known to nest locally – into the city’s southern waters after placing it in veterinary care for nearly a year.
The turtle, measuring 66cm (26 inches) and weighing 39kg (86lbs), was found in October 2022 in waters near Chi Ma Wan Peninsula of Lantau Island by Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) officers, and released on Monday.
The park concluded after 11 months that the reptile was in “in good condition and ready to be returned to the sea”, a department spokesman said on Monday.
Before its release, the turtle was tagged with a microchip for identification and a satellite transmitter was also attached to its shell to allow marine scientists to track its movements and feeding grounds in the sea.
“The AFCD can collect data for formulating appropriate conservation measures and will share its findings with agencies from other regions, so there is better conservation of green turtles through everyone’s concerted efforts,” the spokesman said.