Three turtles lumbered into the sea at Golden Bay today, watched by a large crowd after having been rehabilitated from injuries.   

Nature Trust, which handled their rescue and care, said Europa, a three-year-old turtle that was recovered off the White Tower Bay area on May 9 (Europe Day) had become trapped in a net and had an embedded fishing hook. She was one of the first turtles to be operated with a  new Endoscope purchased by the organisation.

Myrtle, an 8-year-old turtle rescued from Xlendi in January had also been found with an embedded hook and a wound in the front flipper caused by a fishing line. Since the hook was embedded too deeply in the stomach, the turtle was treated in order to help it expel the hook and line. The hook and line were expelled a month ago. 

Moana was picked up by a boat between Sicily to Malta after people noted that it was not diving but swimming lopsided.  Following treatment, it has now fully recovered. The turtle was called after a girl on the boat whose parents saved the turtle.

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Nature Trust is appealing to anyone who comes across an injured turtle, especially those with fishing lines, to never pull the line or attempt to cut the line - but leave this operation in the hands of the vets. 

Anyone finding an injured marine turtle can call Nature Trust Emergency Number 99999505 or the Environment authorities on 99210404 or Animal Welfare Department.