Rehabilitation of a loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) in the Programa Tartaruga Viva, RJ, Brazil

The Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta) case study presented herein, rescued and rehabilitated within the Programa Tartaruga Viva, sheds light on the severe threat posed by anthropogenic solid waste and particularly plastics to marine species. The ingestion of plastic residues resulted in significant complications, including intestinal obstruction, positive buoyancy, and feeding difficulties. A multidisciplinary approach, involving radiographic examinations, veterinary procedures, and an effective treatment and rehabilitation protocol, proved instrumental in the successful recovery of the turtle. This case underscores the pressing need for integrated efforts from society, science, industries, and the government to address and mitigate the environmental impact of anthropogenic waste on marine life.