These fifteen turtles originate from three of the four nests laid by the turtle Diana last summer on Marineta Cassiana beach in Dénia. The remaining hatchlings are under the care of the ARCA del Mar at the Oceanogràfic, where they will stay until they reach the appropriate size and strength for their progressive release into the sea in the coming weeks.
The release event was framed as a symbolic day for environmental awareness. Its coincidence with World Oceans Day highlighted the year-round work dedicated to protecting sea turtle nests on the Valencian coast, as well as the efforts of organizations involved in the recovery of specimens and their subsequent scientific monitoring.
The event brought together institutional representatives, collaborating entities, volunteers, and local residents who are involved in protecting nests on Dénia's beaches during the summer. The release also served to publicly acknowledge the surveillance, custody, and logistical support provided each breeding season.
A notable aspect of the day was the sponsorship of two turtles by the company Agrado Cosmetic. Through this collaboration, one turtle was equipped with a satellite transmitter to track its movements once in open water. The collected data will aid in gathering scientific information on migratory routes and the species' behavior in the Mediterranean.
During the event, Francisco Collado, Director of People and Sustainable Development at Agrado Cosmetic, emphasized the need to translate environmental commitment into concrete, ongoing actions. He highlighted the value of cooperation between public administrations, the scientific community, businesses, and civil society, stating that ‘small actions build big projects’.
Sandra Gertrúdix, Councilor for the Environment of the Dénia City Council, thanked the volunteers and all involved entities for their work. She stressed the importance of raising awareness and educating citizens to maintain respect for sea turtle nests and individuals.
Key measures to reduce risks include early nest detection, closing non-essential access points, and informing bathers and residents. Actions like the one at Punta del Raset aim to directly convey these messages to the local population and visitors to the Alicante coast.
In the Valencian Community, projects such as ‘Head Starting’ and nest surveillance systems are coordinated with environmental administrations and specialized centers like the Oceanogràfic de València, which manages the ARCA del Mar.
