The tortugo Jorge is currently one of the most emblematic animals of Mendoza. After 40 years in captivity, he is now about to return to the open sea.
He spent 38 years in the municipal aquarium of the City of Mendoza and two in a rehabilitation center in Mar del Plata. According to the institution, next week he will be released into his natural habitat.
Finally, tortugo Jorge will return to the sea
Jorge lived in the former municipal aquarium of Mendoza, currently converted into a Conservation Center for Biodiversity.
Over time, legislation and awareness about animal welfare evolved, leading authorities to rethink the keeping of wild animals in captivity.
Two years ago, he was transferred to a Marine Fauna Rehabilitation Center in the Buenos Aires city to go through a gradual and progressive reintegration into natural life, municipal sources reported today.
Tortugo Jorge, (Photo: Uno / Martín Pravata).[/caption>
By then, he was estimated to be 70 years old and weighed 99 kilos. The transfer was done in a container equipped with a moist mattress base, and during the flight, two veterinarians monitored his condition to ensure his well-being.
In his new home, Jorge went from a tank of 20,000 liters to an environment of 120,000 liters with natural sea water.
The rehabilitation was carried out in different stages: first, a quarantine to adapt to the new conditions; then, an intermediate pool and, subsequently, a deep pool where he strengthened his muscles. The final phase took place in an artificial marine lagoon, located next to the sea, where his skills in large areas were evaluated.
Finally, in October 2024, specialists confirmed a crucial milestone in his rehabilitation. Jorge had learned to hunt his own food and coexist with other marine animals, indicating that he was ready to return to his natural habitat.
Although initially his release was projected for 2026, progress in his rehabilitation allowed the process to be expedited.
What remains for the release
Tortugo Jorge, who was once the center of attention in Mendoza, is ready to start a new life in his true home.
How did he get to Mendoza
In the summer of 1984, a group of fishermen rescued a giant sea turtle in Bahía Blanca. The specimen, identified as a male of the species Caretta caretta (also known as loggerhead turtle), was injured and almost frozen.
Jorge is a male of the species Caretta caretta. (Photo: Wikipedia).
At that time, the most viable option was to transfer him to an institution where he could receive care and remain in captivity.
At the time, he was approximately 30 years old and weighed 40 kilos. The decision was made that he would be housed in the Mendoza aquarium because it had the appropriate facilities.
Have you checked out our YouTube channel yet? Subscribe now!
