The first 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 Ramla l-Ħamra in Gozo, and is most likely a loggerhead turtle nest based on recent sightings of turtles in the sea.
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 (22923500) or through its customer care system, or directly to NTM.
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 era.org.mt.
18 June 2023
