Atlantis Paradise Island‘s Marine Aquarium Operations team and The Bahamas Department of Marine Resources recently released approximately 40 two-year-old green sea turtles in waters around New Providence.

The effort is a continuation of a breed and release programme initiated at by the mega-resort to help ensure the longevity of the now endangered species of turtle.

“It was a successful release effort. They swam right into the water, nice and peacefully,” says Ross Martin, senior aquarist at Atlantis. “By doing this we hope to help increase and sustain the population of the green sea turtles in the wild. The turtles, which are more vulnerable and susceptible to predators as hatchlings, now – through this latest exercise – they have a greater chance at survival and Atlantis is proud to be a part of such a meaningful opportunity to help ensure that these wonderful animals do not become extinct.”

Michael Braynen, director at the Department of Marine Resources gives kudos to the resort’s efforts.

“The Department of Marine Resources is pleased to recognize the ongoing work of Atlantis with regard to conservation of marine turtles in The Bahamas. This goes beyond the immediately obvious public displays at the hotel and extends also to their willingness to assist, rescue and rehabilitate turtles injured in the wild. Through careful management of the habitats provided for the turtles on display at Atlantis, there have been ongoing reproductive successes. The release into the natural environment of these baby turtles hatched from eggs laid at Atlantis is indeed a cause for celebration,” he says.

There are seven species of sea turtles – all of which are classified as endangered. To help ensure the survival of these animals that are vital to the health of our marine ecosystems, The Bahamas government enacted new legislation in 2009 that protects all species of sea turtles.

Pictured: Todd Kemp releasing a two-year-old green sea turtle. (Photo courtesy Atlantis)

Pictured: Two-year-old green sea turtle close up. (Photo courtesy Atlantis)

Pictured: Two-year-old green sea turtle released. (Photo courtesy Atlantis)