Conservation

Loggerhead Turtle Rehabilitation

Over the years, we have successfully rehabilitated numerous Loggerhead turtles, including Spike, Peig, Omey, Dylan, Blink, Molly, Sally, Saor, Tallulah, Úna, Mara, Cróga, Toby, and our most recent addition, Maya. These turtles, often found washed up on beaches in poor health, are brought to us for rehabilitation. Our process involves thorough medical examinations, blood analysis, and gradual temperature adjustments to aid their recovery. Once they have regained their health, they are reintroduced into the wild. However, some, like Molly, have become permanent residents due to severe injuries that prevent them from surviving in the wild.

Natterjack Toad Conservation

In partnership with the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), Oceanworld is committed to increasing the population of natterjack toads, Ireland’s rarest amphibian! Over the past seven years, this collaboration has led to the release of 8,500 toadlets into their natural habitat at Inch, now part of Páirc Náisiúnta na Mara, Ciarraí, Ireland’s eighth National Park.

Our captive rearing programme has significantly improved the survival rates of these endangered toads, reducing mortality from over 90% in the wild to less than 25%. By rescuing tadpoles from unsuitable ponds and creating new habitats, we’re giving Natterjack toads a better chance of thriving in the wild. This conservation project is made possible by generous donations from Irish Natterjack Whiskey!

European Lobster Hatchery

Established in May 2006, our lobster hatchery plays a crucial role in rearing the eggs of European Lobsters. Each year, we raise thousands of lobster larvae to the next stage of their life cycle then release them into Dingle bay with assistance from local fishermen. By improving their survival rates, we contribute to the growth of lobster populations, benefiting both the marine ecosystem and local fishing communities.

Leatherback Turtle Research

In collaboration with University College Cork and the University of Wales in Swansea, our staff participated in the first satellite tagging of a Leatherback Turtle in Ireland in 2005. This groundbreaking research has provided valuable insights into the behaviour and migration patterns of these majestic creatures, the largest species of marine turtle.