Category: Press Releases

ERA is pleased to note that the fifth turtle nesting site of this season was spotted at Ġnejna last night by a member of the public. An ERA official recorded this exciting occurrence on the spot.This year, the country has seen a record number of concurrent nests, with five current active nests at Golden bay, Ġnejna and Ramla l-ħamra.

ERA officers immediately went on site and together with nature trust malta (ntm-fee) they cordoned off the area to ensure that the nest is protected. ERA will continue supporting NTM and the relevant stakeholders in order to ensure the protection of the nest. An Emergency Conservation Order will be also issued.

The general public is reminded that it is essential that if a turtle is spotted during a nesting attempt, no interactions with the turtle are to be made. The public is encouraged to act responsibly as excessive noise, trampling and light close to the nesting area may pose a threat to turtle eggs and any hatchlings.

ERA would like to thank the public for their support and co-operation during such events, and encourage the public to immediately report of any observations of turtle activity to ERA phone (2292 3500) or through its customer care system, or directly to NTM (9999 9505).

Volunteers will also be required by NTM during the nesting period so as to help with monitoring and other tasks related to this turtle nest. Those who wish to volunteer, are kindly  asked to send an email on [email protected] for more information.

NTM are supported by ERA to conduct animal rescues and rehabilitation around the Maltese islands.

Note on the species: The loggerhead turtle (Maltese: il-fekruna l-komuni), scientifically known as Caretta caretta is a long-living, slowly maturing marine species that inhabits tropical to warm temperate areas. This species is classified as globally endangered by the World Conservation Area (IUCN) and is also protected by various national and international legislation. Capturing, killing, taking, and trading these turtles, as well as the deliberate disturbance of these species, particularly during the period of breeding, rearing and migration, is prohibited and subject to legal action.  Even the destruction of eggs or taking of eggs from the wild is strictly prohibited and constitutes a criminal offence.  In fact, the national ‘Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations’ impose a minimum fine of nearly €500 and going up to nearly €2400 for each egg that may be destroyed or taken from the wild. The area where the loggerhead turtles has laid its eggs is also a protected area under the Environment Protection Act (Cap. 549) and a Natura 2000 site through the EU Habitats Directive.

For further information, please refer to era.org.mt & https://era.org.mt/turtle-nests-in-malta-gozo/.

 

19 July

The fourth turtle nesting site of this season has been spotted during a routine morning patrol by Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE) volunteers. The turtle nesting site was found at Għajn Tuffieħa, which is the site that saw the most turtle activity this season.

This new nest is most welcome however as was the case with the second nest this season, it has been laid very close to the shore in an area which poses a high risk of mortality should weather conditions become unfavourable.

To maximise the nest’s chances of survival, ERA and Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE) officials worked closely together to ensure that the eggs are safely moved next to the other two nests at Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa (Golden Bay).

Following this operation, ERA will continue to coordinate with NTM-FEE to ensure that the nest is protected.  ERA will continue supporting NTM-FEE and the relevant stakeholders in order to ensure the protection of the nest. An Emergency Conservation Order will also be issued.

The general public is encouraged to act responsibly as excessive noise, trampling and light close to the nesting area may pose a threat to turtle eggs and any hatchlings. ERA encourages the public to immediately report any observations of turtle activity to ERA on over the phone (2292 3500) or through its customer care system, or directly to NTM (9999 9505).

Volunteers will also be required by NTM-FEE during the nesting period to help with monitoring and other tasks related to this turtle nest. Those who wish to volunteer, are kindly asked to send an email on [email protected] for more information.

NTM-FEE are sponsored by ERA to conduct animal rescues and rehabilitation around the Maltese islands.

16 July 2024

Following reports of green water in a number of bays around Malta, ERA and the Environmental Health Directorate are investigating the situation. Samples will be collected and analysed, so as to determine the cause of these episodes. It is to be noted that such algal blooms may occur due to high temperatures and reduced water circulation, conditions typical of heatwaves such as the one we are currently experiencing.

14 July 2024

The third turtle nesting site of this season has been spotted during a routine morning patrol by Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE) volunteers. The loggerhead turtle nesting site was found at Ir-Ramla l-Ħamra (Gozo).

ERA officers are currently coordinating with Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE) to cordon off the area an ensure that the nest is protected.

ERA will continue supporting NTM and the relevant stakeholders in order to ensure the protection of the nest. An Emergency Conservation Order will be also issued.

The general public is encouraged to act responsibly as excessive noise, trampling and light close to the nesting area may pose a threat to turtle eggs and any hatchlings.

ERA would like to thank the public for their support and co-operation during such events, and encourage the public to immediately report of any observations of turtle activity to ERA on over the phone (2292 3500) or through its customer care system, or directly to NTM (9999 9505).

Volunteers will also be required by NTM during the nesting period so as to help with monitoring and other tasks related to this turtle nest. Those who wish to volunteer, are kindly  asked to send an email on [email protected] for more information.

NTM are sponsored by ERA to conduct animal rescues and rehabilitation around the Maltese islands.

13 July 2024

ERA notes with pleasure the recent record from Maltese water of the Mediterranean monk seal (Monachus monachus), which is the only native seal of the Mediterranean region, reported through social media and confirmed by Prof. Alan Deidun.

The Authority notes that this species is native to the Mediterranean and is known in Maltese by the names il‑bumerin, il‑foka monaka or il‑monka, although the latter term was recently also referred by some fishermen to different species of large dolphins and whales – probably as a misnomer noting the increased rarity of the seal in Maltese waters.

The seal is native to Maltese waters, with sporadic records in Maltese waters which reflect its current localised and restricted distribution. Idioms like ‘torqod daqs bumerin’ (literally translated as ‘sleeping like a monk seal’) also indicate their occurrence on land in historical periods in Malta.

Excluding this new sighting, the latest sighting from Maltese waters was in the late 1990s, although, as stated, these are sporadic records. The recent sightings may indicate possible incursions back to the Maltese waters, also noting recent reports off Sicily.

In recorded periods and up until the 20^th century, the Mediterranean monk seals had been known to congregate, give birth, and seek refuge on open beaches in various parts of the Mediterranean region. In more recent times, they have left their former habitat and mostly utilise more secluded and protected remote areas and sea caves for these activities, since these are often inaccessible to humans.

This species is classified as vulnerable but increasing by the World Conservation Area (IUCN), with about 500‑1,000 individuals surviving in different parts of the Mediterranean and the adjacent Atlantic area along the archipelago of Madeira and the Cabo Blanco areas. This seal is believed to possibly be the world’s rarest pinniped species, pinnipeds including semi‑aquatic fin‑footed mammals such as a seals, sea lions, elephant seals and walruses.

In view of this, the Mediterranean Monk seal is protected by national and international law. In Malta, it has been legally declared as a protected species since 1992. Capturing, killing, taking, and trading of such monk seals, as well as the deliberate disturbance of these species is prohibited and subject to legal action.  The national Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations impose a minimum fine of nearly €500 and going up to nearly €2,400 for every specimen affected.

In view of this new sighting, the general public and sea‑farers are encouraged to act responsibly in case of seal encounters, encouraging immediate report of any observations ERA on over the phone (2292 3500) or through its customer care system.

6 June 2024

The second turtle nesting site of this season has been spotted during a routine morning patrol by Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE) volunteers. The turtle nesting site was found at Għajn Tuffieħa.

While this news is most welcome, the nest was laid very close to the surface and to the shore. This posed a risk to the nest should weather conditions become unfavourable. To maximise the nest’s chances of survival, ERA and Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE) officials conducted an emergency operation whereby the eggs were transferred to a safer location at Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa (Golden Bay).

Darrin Stevens, the director for the environment within ERA, said that “The works carried out today in collaboration between ERA and NTM-FEE were done as nest safety is the number one priority when a turtle nest is found. In addition to the relocation the site has also been cordoned off to ensure no direct trampling on the nest takes place.

Following this operation, ERA will continue to coordinate with NTM-FEE to ensure that the nest is protected.  ERA will continue supporting NTM-FEE and the relevant stakeholders in order to ensure the protection of the nest. An Emergency Conservation Order will also be issued.

An NTM-FEE representative said that ‘Through routine beach patrols and strong collaboration between NTM beach patrol and ERA, this nest was immediately found, and the appropriate measures could be promptly taken to ensure its safety. As the nest was very close to the shoreline and falls within an area where seawater levels may rise, the eggs were at risk of drowning. Checks were immediately done in areas of the beach that do not flood, however the bedrock was found within 30cm thus rendering the areas too shallow for a nest.’

 The general public is encouraged to act responsibly as excessive noise, trampling and light close to the nesting area may pose a threat to turtle eggs and any hatchlings. ERA encourages the public to immediately report of any observations of turtle activity to ERA on over the phone (2292 3500) or through its customer care system, or directly to NTM (9999 9505).

This new nest is the second confirmed nest this summer, just after the nest laid on the 15^th June 2024 at Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa (Golden Bay).

Volunteers will also be required by NTM-FEE during the nesting period so as to help with monitoring and other tasks related to this turtle nest. Those who wish to volunteer, are kindly asked to send an email on [email protected] for more information.

NTM-FEE are sponsored by ERA to conduct animal rescues and rehabilitation around the Maltese islands.

1 July 2024

As the country strengthens its waste separation and management efforts, consumers are now encouraged to use see-through black bags when disposing of waste intended for black bags. The Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) announces that this effort is in line with Schedule 3 of S.L.549.40 and targets door-to-door regional waste collection as of 1^st July, 2024.

Since the introduction of a number of measures in 2023, including the new waste collection schedule coordinated by Regional Councils and the Mandatory Waste Separation enforced by ERA- amongst other initiatives – there has been a 23% drop in mixed waste collected and a 35% increase for separately collected organic waste.

Black bags are intended for items which do not classify as organic, recyclable, reusable, hazardous or medicinal. Therefore, the introduction of transparent black bags is another step to support efforts to ensure that consumers dispose of waste properly and further encourage apt waste separation practices. Consumers may have already noticed a difference in the black bags they have purchased, at several local grocers and supermarkets, as market suppliers have joined in ERA’s efforts to support proper waste separation.

Non-see-through black bags will remain on the market and can be used for other purposes besides disposing of mixed waste.

The ERA will support the public in the mandatory use of see-through black bags by allowing a transitional period. During this period, ERA will prioritise awareness-raising since the public’s commitment to proper waste separation and disposal plays a crucial role in preserving our environment, minimising pollution and littering, and supporting recycling practices.

The public is reminded that there are no changes to the existing waste collection schedule. The same bag colours still apply for mixed recyclables (green or grey bags collected every Thursday) and organic waste (in white bags collected every Monday, Wednesday and Friday). Glass waste will continue to be collected every first and third Friday of the month. The bulky waste collection service is also offered by Local Councils free of charge to all households. Additionally, we urge the public to donate items that are still in good condition to Wasteserv’s Reuse Centres, which offer used and ‘pre-loved’ items that still hold value and can be given another ‘life’.

For further information on the waste schedule, waste disposal methods and waste separation, please refer to https://www.wastecollection.mt/.

28 June 2024

The first turtle nesting site of this season has been spotted during a routine morning patrol by Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE) volunteers. The loggerhead turtle nesting site was found at Ir-Ramla tal-Mixquqa (Golden Bay).

ERA officers are currently coordinating with Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE) to cordon off the area an ensure that the nest is protected.

ERA will continue supporting NTM and the relevant stakeholders in order to ensure the protection of the nest. An Emergency Conservation Order will be also issued.

The general public is encouraged to act responsibly as excessive noise, trampling and light close to the nesting area may pose a threat to turtle eggs and any hatchlings.

ERA would like to thank the public for their support and co-operation during such events, and encourage the public to immediately report of any observations of turtle activity to ERA on over the phone (2292 3500) or through its customer care system, or directly to NTM (2131 3150).

Volunteers will also be required by NTM during the nesting period so as to help with monitoring and other tasks related to this turtle nest. Those who wish to volunteer, are kindly  asked to send an email on [email protected] for more information.

NTM are sponsored by ERA to conduct animal rescues and rehabilitation around the Maltese islands.

Note on the species: The loggerhead turtle (Maltese: il-fekruna l-komuni), scientifically known as Caretta caretta is a long-living, slowly maturing marine species that inhabits tropical to warm temperate areas. This species is classified as globally endangered by the World Conservation Area (IUCN) and is also protected by various national and international legislation. Capturing, killing, taking, and trading these turtles, as well as the deliberate disturbance of these species, particularly during the period of breeding, rearing and migration, is prohibited and subject to legal action.  Even the destruction of eggs or taking of eggs from the wild is strictly prohibited and constitutes a criminal offence.  In fact, the national ‘Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations’ impose a minimum fine of nearly €500 and going up to nearly €2400 for each egg that may be destroyed or taken from the wild. The area where the loggerhead turtles has laid its eggs is also a protected area under the Environment Protection Act (Cap. 549) and a Natura 2000 site through the EU Habitats Directive.

For further information, please refer to  https://era.org.mt/turtle-nests-in-malta-gozo/.

15 June 2024

Photo by Mario Cucciardi