CRAM Foundation Releases 28 Sea Turtles in the Ebro Delta

Volunteers from the CRAM Foundation released 28 sea turtles (Caretta caretta) today in the Ebro Delta. The turtles, born last summer in the local nests, were raised in temporary captivity as part of the 'Head-Starting' program to ensure their survival.

The 'Head-Starting' program involves raising sea turtles in captivity until they reach an optimal weight and size, significantly increasing their chances of survival. It is estimated that only 1 in every 1,000 sea turtles reaches adulthood in natural conditions.

The turtles released today weigh between 850 and 1,650 grams. Two turtles will remain in the program as they do not yet meet the optimal conditions for reintroduction.

All the turtles have been marked with a microchip that will allow their identification if they are recovered or, in the case of females, if they return to their original beach to nest. The microchips will also facilitate scientific research, including genetic and genomic studies, as well as a study of hatchling diversification among different recovery centers.