Three Incredible Turtle Stories from the Red Sea: Florine, Fernando and Żółw

The waters of the Red Sea are home to sea turtles with their own individual stories. Through photo-identification and ongoing monitoring, Turtle Watch Egypt 2.0 has been able to follow these turtles over time, documenting their injuries, recovery, and encounters with other marine life.

Meet Florine, Fernando and Żółw: three green turtles with incredible stories of resilience, survival and surprising friendships, offering a glimpse into the challenges they face and the importance of protecting the waters they call home.

Florine’s Fight for Survival – An Incredible Sea Turtle Story!

First documented in January 2023 in Hermas Bay, Florine is a green sea turtle demonstrating extraordinary resilience. Despite suffering severe injuries and losing two flippers over time, ongoing monitoring by Turtle Watch Egypt 2.0 and local divers confirmed her continued survival and recovery. Florine’s story highlights the critical importance of responsible boating and marine practices to reduce human impact on Red Sea wildlife

Fernando’s Journey: A Story of Resilience in Coraya Bay 

First documented in July 2016, Fernando is one of Coraya Bay’s most frequently observed green turtles, with over 30 recorded sightings. This story highlights how ongoing photo-identification allows researchers to monitor individual health, track recovery from boat strike injuries, and work alongside local dive centers to ensure long-term protection for Red Sea turtles.

Where Turtles and Dugongs Meet: Żółw’s Story in Marsa Egla

First identified in August 2022, Żółw is a beloved resident green sea turtle in Marsa Egla, Red Sea. Through photo-identification and ongoing monitoring by Turtle Watch Egypt 2.0, over 30 sightings have been recorded. Żółw’s story highlights the critical importance of protecting seagrass habitats, which she peacefully shares with other marine wildlife, including her gentle companion, Rocco the dugong.

As we celebrate 25 years of the IOSEA Marine Turtle MOU, we showcase some of the people, initiatives and communities that have contributed to marine turtle conservation across the region. Visit our Story Map to discover their stories.