Andy, the Green sea turtle, thrives after release on South Africa’s South Coast
Andy, the Green sea turtle rescued from the uMzimkhulu Estuary in October, is thriving following his release at a nearby area sporting a satellite tag which was generously sponsored by the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation.
Image: SAAMBR
Andy, a Green sea turtle rescued from the uMzimkhulu Estuary in October, is thriving following his release in a nearby area, adorned with a state-of-the-art satellite tag graciously sponsored by the Two Oceans Aquarium Foundation.
The South African Association for Marine Biological Research incl Oceanographic Research Institute said early observations indicate that Andy is embracing his role as a true “Port Shepstone local.”
The pristine waters of the South Coast offer an idyllic habitat for Green turtles, marine creatures known for their longevity and herbivorous diets, closely tied to the health of coastal ecosystems. Over the past six weeks since his release,
Andy has stayed predominantly in the nearshore region stretching between Port Shepstone and Margate. Despite this coastline measuring less than 20 km, the data from his satellite tag reveals that he has navigated over 1,000 km.
His satellite tracking resembles an intricate backyard run, gracefully zigzagging through vibrant patches of nutrient-rich foraging grounds.
As adult male sea turtles are seldom encountered, Andy’s rescue and release offered a rare and valuable opportunity to gain insight into their oceanic movement.
Image: Facebook/SAAMBR
Notably, Andy is not alone in his maritime journey; two other rescued Green sea turtles were released in the same vicinity, and it’s likely that he is sharing this thriving foraging zone with some familiar companions.
It is important to highlight that Green turtles do not nest along the South African coastline, with their major nesting grounds located on isolated islands such as Europa and Tromelin in the Mozambique Channel.
For the time being, Andy appears settled in his South Coast feeding ground, yet his long-term movements promise to unveil fascinating revelations about migratory patterns. With satellite tags capable of transmitting for up to three years, albeit sometimes detaching early due to the oily carapace of Green turtles, the South African Association for Marine Biological Research (SAAMBR) is keen to track Andy’s journey well into 2026 and perhaps beyond.
IOL