The fourth turtle nesting site in Golden Bay

The fourth turtle nesting site of the season was discovered by volunteers from the Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE) during their routine morning patrols.

The turtle nesting site is located in Għajn Tuffeħa. Where are the most active sea turtles this season?.

The Malta Nature Trust said: “This new nest is very welcome, however, like the second nest of the season, it has been placed very close to the coast in an area where there is a high risk of mortality if weather conditions become unfavourable.”

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

The Loggerhead Sea Turtle is a long-lived, slow-maturing marine species found in tropical to temperate zones. The species is listed as globally endangered by the World Conservation Union (IUCN) and is protected by various national and international legislations. Catching, killing, capturing and trading these turtles, as well as intentional harassment of these species, especially during their breeding, rearing and migration periods, are prohibited and punishable by law. Even the destruction or removal of turtle eggs from the wild is strictly prohibited and constitutes a criminal offense.

The national “Regulations for the Protection of Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats” stipulates a minimum fine of nearly 500 euros and a maximum fine of nearly 2,400 euros for each turtle egg destroyed or taken from the wild. The area where the loggerhead turtles lay their eggs is also a protected area under environmental protection laws and a Natura 2000 protected area under the EU Habitats Directive.

ERA will continue to coordinate with NTM-FEE to ensure the nest is protected through an emergency protection order.

“We encourage the public to act responsibly as excessive noise, trampling and light near nesting areas may pose a threat to turtle eggs and any hatchlings. ERA encourages the public to immediately report any observed sea turtle activity to ERA via telephone (2292 3500) or its customer service system, or directly to NTM (9999 9505),” ERA said.

volunteer Will also be required to comply with NTM-FEE Assists with monitoring and other tasks associated with this turtle nest during the nesting period.

NTM-FEE is sponsored by the ERA and carries out animal rescue and rehabilitation work around the Maltese Islands.