Jorgeone Caretta Caretta turtle 60 years and over 100 kg of weight, after being trapped in 1984 in a fishing network off Argentina, he spent well 41 years in captivity In an aquarium in Mendoza, hundreds of kilometers from the sea.
Accustomed to living in one 5,000 liter tankfeeding on hard -boiled eggs and boiled meatJorge seemed destined to. But in 2021, a petition with over 60,000 signatures And a legal action have started a project by exceptional rehabilitationcarried out by several Argentine scientific institutes.
Three years to reactivate instincts
To prepare it for the return to wild life, Jorge had to re -enter to huntswim in deep waters and orient themselves between simulated ocean currents. His re -education path lasted three yearsduring which he learned to feed on Cracks and live snailsto build shelters and compete with other animals for food.
On April 11, 2025, Jorge finally left the mainland. Accompanied by a team of biologists and the Argentine coast guard, it was released to the Atlantic15 nautical miles from the coast. Equipped with a satellite transmitterstarted an epic journey to the north, with destination Praia do Fortein Brazil.
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After beyond 2,700 km traveledJorge continues to send daily signals that allow you to monitor his journey. Scientists are optimistic: it is healthymoves regularly and has now overcome the major challenges. In addition to representing a triumph for the marine storageJorge could also contribute to the Reproduction of the speciessince it is still in fertile age.
For researchers, Jorge is a Unique case in the world. No other marine turtle has ever returned with so much success to wild life after so many years in captivity. Its history is not only a biological miracle, but a Powerful message of hope for nature and for the Possibility of reintegration.
