Rescued Sea Turtles "Leonardo" and "Michelangelo" Released Back into Ocean

sea turtle being carried by human at beach

Photo: Mississippi Aquarium

Your support has helped save the lives of critically endangered sea turtles found injured and cold-stunned on New England coast. Thanks to your donations, "Leonardo" and "Michelangelo" were flown on a Operation Turtle Takeoff flight to a rehab center to recover.  

rescued sea turtle inside crate
Photo: Mississippi Aquarium

They received the medical care they needed to heal, new names, and the day has finally come for them to return to the ocean. No more hiding in the shadows of their crates for these brave warriors.

sea turtle being carried to water at beach release
Photo: Mississippi Aquarium

Instead, the juvenile Kemp's ridley sea turtles will take refuge in sargassum algae for food and shelter in the ocean until they reach their full size. 

sea turtle being carried by woman in blue scrubs
Photo: Mississippi Aquarium

The medical team at Mississippi Aquarium, who has been caring for the turtles, headed to the beach to release the endangered turtles back into the ocean. 

sea turtle being released back into the ocean
Photo: Mississippi Aquarium

It was an exciting day for both staff, onlookers, and of course, the turtles. Check out Leonardo and Michelangelo being released below. "Cowabunga, dudes!"

sea turtle returning to the ocean with two people watching
Photo: Mississippi Aquarium
endangered sea turtle returns to the ocean
Photo: Mississippi Aquarium

We want to thank you for your help and ongoing support that saved these sea turtles and many more. You are all "turtle-y awesome". Donate today to help care for more rescued sea turtles.

Scroll through more photos of the release below. 

sea turtle being carried on beach by person
Photo: Mississippi Aquarium
man in teal shirt and red hat carrying sea turtle on beach release
Photo: Mississippi Aquarium
man and woman releasing sea turtle back into ocean
Photo: Mississippi Aquarium
woman carrying sea turtle at beach release with onlookers
Photo: Mississippi Aquarium
Andrea Powell

Andrea Powell is an animal enthusiast who resides in West Michigan. When not writing, she is exploring the great outdoors with her dogs and horses.

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