One of the turtles waiting to swim free in the waters at the Bight Reef
What a tremendous afternoon it was today. We were all enthralled and so happy to watch the release of six, two year old green turtles. These turtles were all born in the Turks and Caicos Islands and brought to the Providenciales Conch farm to be raised until capable of surviving in the ocean. The bigger the turtles the better chance for survival. Once grown it is hoped that they will return to nest here in the Turks and Caicos. Today was the day as the six turtles headed into the waters at the Bight Reef by Coral Gardens.
Carefully carrying his precious cargo of green turtles.
Malaika is a little unsure as she takes a closer look at the turtles
Lots of kids came to watch and these two little ones were so excited.
Such beautiful markings on this little two year old green turtle.
This little guy poked his head out to get a better look at everything.
There are very few nesting turtles in the Turks and Caicos Islands and the green turtle is a threatened species. Apparently fishing for turtles in many parts of the world is not allowed but often they are caught by local fisherman and eaten by residents. In the Turks and Caicos Islands you cannot take a nesting turtle or catch one that is less than 20″ in diameter.
Eiglys Trejo holds Frack, one of the turtles she helped feed and care for at the Conch Farm.
These little guys were flapping their "flippers" ready for their first big swim in the waters by the Bight Reef.
The big moment as everyone watches them make their way into the ocean.
Free at last....a heart warming sight!
Scooting down the sand towards the water.
Into the water we all go.
As soon as they got to the water, it wasn't too long before they swam away and over towards the reef.
Hoping to see these turtles again as they grow and hopefully return to nest here.
So wonderful to see them swimming free.
Everyone was smiling and happy to see these little guys return to their natural habitat. I’m so glad I got to experience this moment but I’m still hoping that one day I will see hatchlings making for the water.
I’m still smiling as I write this.
Today was a wonderful day on Providenciales.
Marta