An endangered sea turtle, that washed up on Ireland's shores last Christmas in ill health, is being flown to Gran Canaria where she will be released back into the wild - and warmer - waters of her natural habitat.
Solstice the turtle was discovered washed up on a beach on Christmas Eve 2024 by a woman who runs a hedgehog sanctuary in Quilty, Co Clare.
The woman reached out to the team at Dingle Oceanworld Aquarium in Daingean Uí Chúis, who determined that the turtle was suffering from pneumonia and meningitis, likely brought on by the shock of the cold Atlantic waters.
Further inspection revealed bite marks on the turtle's shell, likely inflicted by a seal or shark.
While in the aquarium, the turtle gained strength and around 2kg, after being treated with antibiotics and being fed.
Speaking earlier this week, Director of Dingle Oceanworld Kevin Flannery said Solstice is ready for her release after nearly five months of treatment in Ireland.
Solstice is now embarking on a journey with Aer Lingus to Gran Canaria, where a dedicated wildlife rescue team will assist in returning her to the wild.
"We are not exactly sure where Solstice came from, but we assume it was the Gulf of Mexico," Mr Flannery said.
He said earlier in the week that the turtle would be tagged before its release.
"The American Marine Research Centre - Woods Hole, it's called - they have found an island off of the African coast, where these green turtles come ashore and lay their eggs. So it may be from there. We don't know but I'm hopeful it is, and that with the tag, we'll be able to see where it's going," said Mr Flannery.
Donal Moriarty, Aer Lingus Chief Corporate Affairs Officer, said: "Aer Lingus is proud to support the team at Dingle Oceanworld in their remarkable efforts to give Solstice a second chance. Every measure has been taken to ensure Solstice's safety and comfort as she travels with Aer Lingus to Gran Canaria.
"Solstice has her own assigned seat, right next to her carer, and a specially designed container that has been fitted safely by our engineering team to ensure a smooth journey.
"Green sea turtles are an endangered species and this vital conservation effort provides Solstice with the opportunity to recover and flourish, helping to safeguard the future of her species," added Mr Moriarty.
Once Solstice touches down in Gran Canaria, an official from Tafira Wildlife Recovery Centre will be on hand to begin her re-adaptation to her environment, with the goal of releasing her back into the wild.
