Turtle Rehabilitation
Joni’s Journey: From Stranding to Release
After 16 weeks in care, Joni, a juvenile Green sea turtle, was returned to the ocean at Nelly Bay following a successful rehabilitation journey with MINT.
Rescue
Found on Geoffrey Bay’s Tidal Flats
When Joni, a juvenile Green sea turtle ( Chelonia mydas ), was discovered stranded on the tidal flats of Geoffrey Bay in April, her future was uncertain. Found underweight and vulnerable, she was showing signs that suggested she may have been battling a form of ulcerative disease, commonly referred to as Shell Disease Syndrome.
Joni was brought into care at the MINT Rehabilitation Clinic, where volunteers began the careful process of assessment, stabilisation and supportive treatment.
Rehabilitation
Care, Treatment and Recovery
Over the following weeks, Joni responded well to treatment. Her care plan focused on improving her body condition through a carefully managed feeding regime, alongside treatment for her suspected shell condition.
Regular observations and measurements allowed carers to track her progress closely, ensuring she was gaining strength and returning to normal behaviour.
After 16 weeks in care, Joni had made remarkable progress. Volunteer veterinarian Dr Dhanushka Jayokody-Perera noted that Joni had recovered so well she was “a little bit fat” — a positive outcome that would give her a valuable buffer as she returned to life in the wild.
Release
A Return to the Ocean
On 19 July, Joni was ready to return home. At Nelly Bay, MINT volunteers, members of the public and supporters gathered to witness her release.
As she was placed on the sand, Joni wasted no time. With renewed strength, she made her way quickly toward the water, disappearing into the ocean that she had once struggled to survive in.
For those watching, it was a powerful and emotional moment — a reminder of what successful rehabilitation can achieve.
Conservation in Action
Why Stories Like Joni’s Matter
Joni’s journey is one of many undertaken each year at MINT. Sea turtles face increasing threats from disease, pollution, habitat degradation and human interaction. Without timely rescue and intervention, many stranded turtles would not survive.
Rehabilitation provides these animals with a second chance, but it also relies heavily on community awareness and support. Every rescue, every hour of care and every successful release contributes to the long-term survival of these remarkable marine species.
Joni’s story is a reminder that with the right care and dedication, recovery is possible — and that even the smallest turtle can make a strong return to the ocean.
Support Turtle Rehabilitation
Help Give More Turtles a Second Chance
MINT’s rehabilitation work is made possible through volunteer effort, community support and donations. Your support helps provide food, medical treatment, water quality management and care for sick and injured sea turtles.
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