An injured Olive Ridley sea turtle was rescued, treated, and safely released back into the sea in Chennai after a barbed fishing hook was found lodged in her mouth. The swift intervention by the Tamil Nadu Forest Department, in coordination with the Besant Memorial Animal Dispensary (BMAD), ensured immediate medical attention.

A specialised veterinary team led by Dr. Sridhar from Vandalur Zoo successfully removed the hook through precise surgery, preventing infection and allowing the turtle to feed normally. Following recovery, the turtle was fitted with a satellite transmitter to monitor her movements and aid research on migration patterns and post-release survival.

Forest officials and veterinary experts praised the rescue as a model of inter-agency collaboration and dedication to wildlife conservation. The operation highlights the importance of reporting injured marine animals promptly and demonstrates the role of scientific monitoring in protecting endangered species like the Olive Ridley, which nests along India’s eastern coast.