Three injured sea turtles that had been cared for at the Israel Sea Turtle Rescue Center in Mikhmoret were released yesterday (Thursday) into the sea at Nof Yam Beach in Herzliya, in a moving event. Around 200 people, including many children, came to watch the release of the turtles, which had been harmed by fishing hooks and plastic debris.
Female turtle gained weight since her rescue
Among the turtles released was a female loggerhead sea turtle named “Yariv,” who had washed ashore in Herzliya about a year ago, wounded by a fishing hook. After extensive treatment, including surgery to remove another hook from her digestive system, she gained weight—from 29 kg to 33 kg—and was ready to return to the sea.
Joining “Yariv” were two young sea turtles: “Tzachi,” who was found entangled in a plastic bag at the Herzliya Marina, and “Donatello,” who was discovered caught in a plastic sack at Megadim Beach. After thorough medical care and a long rehabilitation process, they too were released back into the water.
Gratitude and Environmental Awareness
Nidal Udah, a Herzliya municipal worker who has rescued dozens of sea turtles during his 35 years on the job, received a certificate of appreciation for his work protecting sea turtles in Israel. “When I save an animal, I feel like I’ve saved the world,” Udah said emotionally.
Herzliya Mayor Yariv Fisher thanked the volunteers and the Sea Turtle Rescue Center for their dedicated work on behalf of the city’s coastal wildlife. “The city of Herzliya cares for all life within it—both people and animals.”
