Molly the turtle released into Atlantic after 22 years at Kerry aquarium

Molly, a sea turtle cared for at Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium in County Kerry for 22 years, was released into the Atlantic from a naval vessel 12 nautical miles off Portugal on 28 October, RTÉ reported. Her return to open water follows treatment for injuries she had when she washed ashore in Ireland in 2004.

Maria Foley, who has worked with Molly at the aquarium for 12 years and was present for the release, told RTÉ that Molly became more active aboard the vessel. When the hatch opened, she said, Molly walked down the ramp and into the water.

How Molly was prepared for release

Dingle Oceanworld director Kevin Flannery told The Journal.ie that Molly had once been thought unable to swim or feed well enough to survive at sea. He said she later developed a stronger swimming style using her damaged flippers, changing his assessment of whether she could be released.

The Journal.ie reported that Molly was flown to Portugal in April in a specially designed padded box after veterinary certificates and CITES permits were obtained. Staff at Zoomarine’s Porto d’Abrigo turtle hospital then spent five months preparing her for release, including work on recognising natural food and on diving patterns suited to ocean life.

Flannery said he was fairly confident Molly could catch her own food. That assessment matters because feeding independently was among the concerns that had kept her in care, according to his account to The Journal.ie.

Where Molly may go next

RTÉ reported that Molly has been tagged and that the aquarium team hopes she will reach her original nesting site. The Journal.ie reported that DNA samples examined by a US university professor indicated she originated in the Gulf of Mexico. Her movements after release have not yet been established.