The New York Marine Rescue Center (NYMRC) is set to release an adult loggerhead sea turtle named 'Pegasus' at Tiana Beach in Hampton Bays, New York, on Tuesday, September 23rd, following a successful rehabilitation that spanned two facilities. The release, scheduled for 6 p.m., represents a collaborative effort between NYMRC and the National Aquarium in Baltimore, where Pegasus initially received treatment for buoyancy issues caused by a suspected vessel strike.
Pegasus was originally reported stranded on June 4, 2024, at Assateague National Park in Maryland and was brought to the National Aquarium in Baltimore for assessment. There, she was diagnosed with buoyancy problems likely resulting from a vessel strike. During her early rehabilitation, specialized weights were used to help her overcome floating challenges and regain muscle strength. As her recovery progressed, she required a larger tank to better monitor her buoyancy and swimming abilities, prompting her transfer to NYMRC in Riverhead, New York, in May of 2025.
At NYMRC, Pegasus continued her recovery under the care of the dedicated team. According to NYMRC Executive Director Maxine Montello, the collaboration between the two organizations was crucial for Pegasus's successful rehabilitation. 'We are so happy to help our colleagues in Baltimore with this unique case and to play a role in giving Pegasus a second chance,' Montello said. Prior to the release, Montello will equip Pegasus with a satellite tag to track her post-release movements, providing valuable data on her behavior and long-term outcomes after returning to the wild.
This release underscores NYMRC's ongoing mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release marine animals in need, while supporting broader conservation and research efforts across the region. As the primary responders for sick or injured seals, sea turtles, dolphins, porpoises, and small toothed whales, NYMRC maintains the only marine mammal and sea turtle rehabilitation center in New York State. The National Aquarium, a private nonprofit organization, also contributes to marine conservation through exhibits, education programs, and field initiatives that engage more than 1.2 million people annually.
The event will take place at 90 Dune Road, Hampton Bays, NY 11946, on the ocean side. For more information about NYMRC, visit www.nymarinerescue.org. To learn more about the National Aquarium, visit www.aqua.org.
