A sea turtle has been rescued and remains under intensive care. in a rehabilitation center in Valencia after being found on a beach in Torrevieja with obvious signs of having ingested a helium balloon. The animal, of the species Caretta caretta, was in very poor health at the time of discovery.
The remains of the balloon were visible in both the mouth and the cloaca of the animal., suggesting an internal obstruction. According to reports from the Oceanogràfic of Valencia, the turtle was dehydrated, very thin, and unable to feed itself. The case was detected thanks to a call to 112, which activated the emergency protocol of the Valencian Community Stranding Network.
The rescue operation was carried out in collaboration with the Lifeguard Service, the Torrevieja City Council and the Royal Nautical Club.A specialized team from the Oceanogràfic Foundation traveled to the site to transport the animal to the ARCA del Mar center, where veterinarians performed an initial medical evaluation.
During the clinical examination, part of the balloon could be removed., although a plastic tape remains inside the animal, which is expected to be expelled naturally. Meanwhile, the center's professionals are administering specific medication, fluids, and a controlled diet.
Borja Yebras, a member of the veterinary team, explained that the condition is delicate., as the balloon had caused a significant internal infection. The specimen remains under constant observation and intensive treatment, with the hope of a gradual recovery.
Impact of plastic on the marine ecosystem
This incident highlights the growing problem of plastic waste. in the marine environment. The Oceanogràfic Foundation has taken the opportunity to issue a warning about the risks of releasing balloons, as many marine animals mistake them for food.
“Releasing a balloon may seem harmless, but its impact can be lethal to marine wildlife.”, the organization assures. The turtle found in Torrevieja is not an isolated case, and more and more specimens are being affected by plastics in the sea. More similar cases in marine biodiversity.
These situations represent a serious risk for protected species. and Caretta caretta, especially vulnerable to contamination by floating debris. Sea turtles often mistake balloons and bags for jellyfish, their usual food, which causes intestinal blockages and, in many cases, death.
Authorities and conservation centers insist on the importance of prevention. and to avoid practices that could have negative consequences for the environment. Citizens are also encouraged to alert emergency services if they see any marine wildlife in danger.
Cases like this turtle's have helped to highlight a growing problem that requires not only medical intervention when it occurs, but also social awareness actions and regulatory measures to limit the use of single-use plastics, including balloons.
This event clearly illustrates how a simple, everyday object can become a death trap for marine life. The rapid response of specialized teams and institutional collaboration have been key to giving the animal a chance to survive.
