Happy Sea Turtle Day! These are the species you might spot in Malta and the challenges they face
Rising temperatures means more female hatchlings.
Today, we celebrate World Sea Turtle Day – a moment to honour these ancient mariners and reflect on the vital role they play in our marine ecosystems. Despite the challenges they face, sea turtles still glide through Maltese waters, offering rare and unforgettable encounters for those lucky enough to spot them.
There are seven species of sea turtles worldwide: Flatback, Kemp's Ridley, Olive Ridley, Hawksbill, Leatherback, Green and Loggerhead. All seven are strictly protected by both international and Maltese law, meaning it's illegal to capture, harm, or disturb them at any stage of life.
According to EcoMarine Malta, Malta's surrounding waters are home to five of these seven species, either through regular sightings or rare appearances:
- Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) – The most commonly seen turtle in the Mediterranean, and the only one known to nest in our region.
- Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) – Rare, but known to nest in the Mediterranean, including our shores on occasion.
- Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) – Spotted occasionally; not a Mediterranean native, but still shows up in Maltese waters.
- Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) – Rare visitors, mostly known for their distinctive patterned shells.
- Kemp’s Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii) – Extremely rare, with only isolated sightings in the Mediterranean.
Unlike most marine creatures, female sea turtles return to land to nest, often laying their eggs in the same area where they were born. In Malta, Loggerhead and Green turtles are the only two species known to nest.
But there’s a catch: the gender of baby turtles depends on the temperature of the sand during incubation (specifically between days 20–35). Temperatures below 29°C being mostly males, while those above 29°C tend to bring females.
With global temperatures on the rise, this imbalance means fewer male turtles are being born, posing a serious reproductive challenge in the coming decades.
That’s not the only challenge they face – human activity in just the past few decades has made life increasingly difficult, including pollution, marine traffic and habitat loss due to coastal development.
While the threats are real, thankfully awareness and action are increasing. More people are taking interest in conservation, and organisations continue to work hard to protect turtle populations.
If you're ever lucky enough to spot a turtle – injured or nesting – call 9999 9505 immediately, avoid touching the turtle and keep it calm until help arrives. If it’s nesting, avoid shining bright lights in its direction, and make sure you’re not blocking its path to the sea.
Sea turtles are some of the most fascinating and beloved creatures in the ocean. By staying informed and respectful, we can help ensure that future generations can continue to share our shores with them.
Have you spotted any turtles recently?