According to a statement released by Zoomarine on 16 February 2026, the turtle—named Xena—showed visible signs of dehydration and suspected pulmonary complications. Upon arrival at the rehabilitation centre in Guia, the animal underwent diagnostic tests, including blood tests and X-rays, and is now under a specialised treatment plan and constant monitoring.

Credits: Supplied Image; Author: Zoomarine;


Antonieta Nunes, the veterinary nurse in charge of the Porto d'Abrigo shelter, emphasised the importance of rapid intervention in a delicate recovery process. Xena's clinical progress has been positive, and as soon as her condition is considered stable, she will be returned to the sea.

Raising public awareness

Zoomarine took the opportunity to raise public awareness about how to act when faced with animals in distress, reinforcing the need to contact the authorities immediately: the national ABRIGOS network (968 849 101), the Zoomarine Porto d'Abrigo shelter (289 560 300), or the regional stranding networks of Algarve (968 688 233), Alentejo (932 004 615), Lisbon (911 111 241), and North (919 618 705).