Categorized | Environment, Featured

Freedom for six more baby turtles

(Photo courtesy of Mauna Lani Bay Hotel)

Hawaii 24/7 Staff

More than 1,000 people gathered on the beach Wednesday morning at Mauna Lani Bay to watch as six baby honu took their first dip in the Pacific Ocean.

Sen. Daniel Akaka was among the dignitaries to release one of the turtles.

Since 1989, Mauna Lani Bay Hotel has received 3-5 month old juvenile honu from Oahu’s Sea Life Park and has raised them in the saltwater ponds of the resort. The honu are cared for until they grow to a size and weight that is classified as healthy for release into the ocean – usually two to three years.

More than 200 Hawaiian green sea turtles have been released since the program began 23 years ago. The honu is identified as a threatened species.

The sea turtle is the only indigenous reptile of Hawaii, evolving some 180 million years ago, and has become a significant symbol of the Islands. It represents longevity, safety and mana (spiritual energy) and Native Hawaiians consider it the bearer of good luck and peace.

Attendees also enjoyed turtle education displays, Hawaiian entertainment and a traditional Fourth of July BBQ.

— Find out more:
www.maunalani.com

(Photo courtesy of Mauna Lani Bay Hotel)

(Photo courtesy of Mauna Lani Bay Hotel)

(Photo courtesy of Mauna Lani Bay Hotel)

(Photo courtesy of Mauna Lani Bay Hotel)

U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka (right) and his son, Kahu Danny Akaka Jr. (Photo courtesy of Mauna Lani Bay Hotel)

One Response to “Freedom for six more baby turtles”

  1. Dr. B. B. Solarin says:

    The efforts are highly appreciated by me; more so because it occurred on my birthday, 4th July. The feeling is more intense and important because many others and I share our birthday with the indepedence day of USA.

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