Marguerite, a wood turtle, was returned to her natural habitat on July 13, 2026 after spending a full year receiving treatment and rehabilitation at the Centre de réhabilitation des tortues du Québec (CRTQ) in Quebec, Canada. The release follows an extensive recovery period that began when the turtle was found injured after a vehicle ran over her, causing a fracture to her shell.
The incident that left Marguerite severely damaged was reported to the CRTQ, where veterinarians promptly took charge of her care. Over the course of twelve months, the team provided medical attention aimed at stabilizing the fracture, managing pain, and supporting overall health. The rehabilitation process involved regular health assessments, wound care, and a controlled environment that allowed the turtle to regain strength and mobility.
During her stay, the veterinary staff monitored Marguerite’s progress closely, adjusting treatments as needed to ensure the shell healed properly and that she could once again move freely. The year-long program emphasized both physical recovery and the reconditioning required for a successful reintroduction to the wild.
The decision to release Marguerite was made after confirming that her injuries had healed sufficiently and that she displayed the necessary behaviors to survive independently. The CRTQ’s release site, located within the province of Quebec, offers suitable habitat for wood turtles, providing the shelter, water sources, and food availability essential for the species.
Marguerite’s return to the wild marks the conclusion of a dedicated effort by the CRTQ and its veterinary team to rescue and rehabilitate a turtle that suffered a serious vehicular injury. Her successful recovery underscores the importance of specialized wildlife rehabilitation facilities in Quebec and highlights the potential for injured animals to regain health and resume natural life when provided with appropriate care.
The release ceremony took place on the centre’s grounds, where staff observed Margourite’s departure into the surrounding environment, signaling the end of her year-long hospital stay and the beginning of her renewed life in the wild.