The Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation’s Turtle Conservation Centre has released four rehabilitated sub-adult turtles into the De Hoop Marine Protected Area (MPA).
On November 26, green turtles Nori, Stella and Pebbles, and hawksbill turtle Cinnamon, returned to the wild after extended rehabilitation at the aquarium.
Through support from Morukuru Family and the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation, Nori was fitted with a satellite tag, enabling long-term tracking to better understand green turtle movements.
Founder of the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation Anka Zeeman said it is a privilege to support the rehabilitation work. “Nori’s journey has been one of resilience and hope, and we are delighted to follow her next chapter as she explores the ocean’s vastness.”
The release took place in summer when coastal conditions in the De Hoop MPA are favourable.
Nori, rescued in Witsand in 2023, underwent intensive treatment to restore her eyesight while Stella, Pebbles and Cinnamon each survived substantial challenges during rehabilitation.
The Turtle Conservation Centre has seen several milestones in recent years, including releasing three turtle species in 2024. Conservation Manager Talitha Noble-Trull said the latest release highlights the importance of the De Hoop MPA. “This is a testament to the value of the De Hoop MPA for turtle conservation in the country and the continent.”
While green turtles have been reclassified by the International Union for Conservation of Nature from “endangered” to “least concern”, ongoing intervention remains essential. For Cinnamon, as a critically endangered hawksbill turtle, rehabilitation has provided a vital second chance.
The event also signifies the renewal of a three-year partnership between the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation and the Morukuru Goodwill Foundation. The agreement will support ongoing rehabilitation efforts, including satellite tagging and post-release monitoring for future turtles.
