A sick post-hatchling turtle found near Fremantle has been rehabilitated and will be released back into the wild with a tracking device to temporarily monitor its movements.
The juvenile flatback turtle, named Mussels, will be released on Monday at Cable Beach in Broome, in Western Australia's Kimberley region.
The Department of Parks and Wildlife (DPaW) will use satellite technology to track the animal for two months to give scientists insight into its behaviour after release.
DPaW marine science principal scientist Scott Whiting said Broome had been chosen because it was a known habitat for flatback turtles.
"This turtle is extra special because it is one of only a few flatback turtles rehabilitated in Western Australia," he said.
"Little is known about the habitat selection, diet and movements of sea turtles of this size, especially flatback turtles.
"This study provides a unique opportunity to better understand this phase."
The turtle was found in the Swan River in 2011, and taken to the Aquarium of WA (AQWA) where it had extensive rehabilitation before being ready for release.
AQWA marketing and education coordinator Sheigh Longstaff said Mussels was very young and weak when he came to the facility for care.
"It's fantastic to see such a strong and healthy turtle now ready for release," she said.
The public can follow Mussels' progress at sea online at www.seaturtle.org/tracking.
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