A Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, affectionately named Boeier, was recently released back into the Gulf of Mexico after an incredible journey from its native habitat. This adorable turtle was originally discovered approximately one year ago, about 5,000 miles (8,047 kilometers) away from home, off the coast of the Netherlands, according to the Houston Zoo.
Boeier got stranded when it became tangled in the net of a commercial fishing boat. Fortunately, after being rescued, it was taken to the Rotterdam Zoo, where dedicated staff provided rehabilitation and care until Boeier was in good health.
The U.S. National Fish and Wildlife Service played a crucial role in coordinating the turtle’s return journey to the United States. Once it arrived in Houston on October 29, after being flown in, Boeier underwent a series of medical tests and an acclimation process to prepare for its release.
Finally, on November 4, the healthy turtle was joyfully released into the warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico from Stewart Beach in Galveston. This release marks a significant step for the species, which has been classified as endangered since 1970 by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Kemp’s ridley sea turtles are the smallest species of sea turtles, measuring between 27 and 32 inches (68 to 81 cm) in length and typically weighing between 75 and 100 pounds (34 to 45 kg). These turtles are native to the coastal regions of the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, and their population has faced numerous challenges due to human activities, underscoring the importance of conservation efforts for their survival.
