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Cuban Man Releases Three Turtles into River, One Makes Heartwarming Choice

Monday, September 1, 2025 by Michael Hernandez

José Ibrain Venereo Jiménez, a young Cuban content creator known on social media as @jose_ibrain_venereo_jimenez, has touched the hearts of thousands with a touching video showing his attempt to release his three pet turtles into a river. One turtle, however, made an unexpected choice.

As an animal lover, José felt it was time to grant the freedom of the turtles he had cared for over the years. He carefully chose a habitat where they could thrive on their own in the wild. The video captures him releasing the first two turtles, which promptly dive into the water and disappear, but the third turtle steals the spotlight with her surprising reaction.

A Surprising Turn of Events

This large turtle was gently placed in the water by José after he bid her farewell, urging her never to be caught again. Rather than swimming away, she floated for a few moments before turning to face him, a gesture many interpreted as a sign of gratitude and connection.

Moved by the turtle's response, José encouraged her to go, admitting he felt sad about their parting. Despite his words, she remained still, her head above the water, searching for him with her gaze. Overcome by emotion, José lifted her out of the water and embraced her.

The Story Behind the Turtle

"My dad caught this turtle and wanted to sell her to a witch doctor," José explained. "I bought her and she's been with us for less than two years. I decided to free her because it was the right thing to do. It didn't seem fair for her to spend her life in a house, but... we took her back home with us."

The spontaneous video has sparked a wave of reactions on social media. One user commented, "The first time you chose her, and the second time she chose you. It's the best video of the day."

The Unbreakable Bond

The connection between humans and animals continues to provide endless heartwarming stories, and this is no exception. José's decision has been applauded by many as a gesture of awareness and respect for animals, though it seems the turtle decided her home is with her favorite person.

FAQs About Turtle Liberation and Human-Animal Bonds

Why did José decide to release his turtles?

José chose to release his turtles because he believed it was the right thing to do, allowing them to live freely in their natural habitat rather than spending their lives in captivity.

What was the reaction of the third turtle?

The third turtle floated momentarily and turned to face José, which many interpreted as a sign of gratitude. She did not swim away immediately, prompting José to take her back home.

How did social media react to José's video?

The video has gone viral, generating a wave of positive reactions. People have praised José's decision and the unique bond between him and his turtle.

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