The United Arab Emirates has reached a significant milestone in marine conservation with the rescue of its 1,000th sea turtle. Launched in 2020, the Wildlife Rescue Program, a collaborative effort between The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD) and The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi (TNA), has been instrumental in protecting and rehabilitating these ancient creatures.
This remarkable achievement underscores the UAE’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The program has seen continuous growth, with additional manpower and state-of-the-art facilities dedicated to streamlining the rescue and rehabilitation processes. This dedication extends beyond numbers, as each rescued turtle receives specialized care from expert veterinarians, ensuring their optimal health before release.
One such turtle, aptly named “Turtle 1,000,” will take center stage as its journey unfolds. The public will have the unique opportunity to follow its rehabilitation process through regular updates on TNA’s website and social media platforms. These updates, provided by the veterinarians themselves, will offer valuable insights into the intricate care these remarkable creatures receive.
Following its release in the summer of 2024, Turtle 1,000’s adventure will continue. Equipped with a satellite tag, its movements across the Arabian Gulf will be tracked and shared weekly, allowing everyone to virtually accompany it on its journey back to the wild.
This milestone serves as a beacon of hope for the future of sea turtles in the UAE. Ahmed Al Hashmi, Executive Director of the Terrestrial and Marine Biodiversity Sector at EAD, emphasizes the program’s role in reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a leader in wildlife conservation. He highlights their unwavering commitment to providing the most advanced care, ensuring the turtles thrive and contribute to the health of the emirate’s marine ecosystem.
Paul Robert Hamilton, General Manager of The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, echoes this sentiment, recognizing the program’s success as a testament to the collaborative efforts of both TNA and EAD. He underscores the importance of reintroducing rehabilitated turtles back into their natural habitats, not only for the individual creatures but for the overall health of the species.
The program’s achievements haven’t been possible without the support of the public. Recognizing this crucial role, Hamilton urges anyone who encounters a defenseless turtle to contact the Wildlife Rescue Program helpline. Every individual can play a part in preserving these magnificent creatures and the delicate balance of our planet’s ecosystem.
The story of Turtle 1,000 is more than just a single turtle’s journey; it’s a symbol of hope and dedication. It’s a reminder that collective action can make a real difference in protecting our vulnerable wildlife and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.
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