This week AND turtle nesting season have kicked off with an exciting find at Ġnejna Bay!
On the morning of Monday 9th June, during a routine beach patrol, beach cleansing personnel spotted a loggerhead turtle covering a nest in the sand. Recognising the signs of nesting activity, they contacted Nature Trust – FEE Malta’s Wildlife Rescue Team, who arrived on site along with the Environment & Resources Authority (ERA).
ERA
The nesting site was confirmed and cordoned off to protect the eggs, and the turtle –who wasn’t previously microchipped – was safely tagged and named Grace, becoming the first turtle to nest in Malta this year.
Nature Trust and ERA worked quickly to secure the site. In the coming days, ERA will issue an emergency conservation order to further safeguard the nest, which is a vital step in protecting this endangered species and its fragile hatchlings.
The loggerhead turtle (known locally as ‘il-fekruna l-komuni’) is listed as globally endangered and protected by various national and international laws. Capturing, disturbing, or harming these turtles, including tampering with their nests or eggs, is a criminal offence in Malta, with fines starting at nearly €500 per egg.
To ensure the safety of Grace’s nest, Nature Trust is calling for volunteers to help with around-the-clock nest monitoring and other related tasks. If you’d like to contribute to this vital conservation effort, drop an email to [email protected].
There are other ways you can help too! ERA and Nature Trust are reminding the public to stay alert and act responsibly:
- If you spot a turtle or nest:
Do not approach the turtle or the nesting area. Keep your distance, reduce noise, and turn off bright lights. Report sightings immediately to ERA by calling 2292 3500 or to Nature Trust on 9999 9505. - If you’re visiting Ġnejna Bay:
Be respectful near the nesting site. Avoid trampling, loud noises, or shining lights in the area, as this could distress the turtles or harm the eggs.
This marks a hopeful and definitely eggciting start to Malta’s turtle nesting season.
A huge thank you to all those working together to protect Malta’s coastal biodiversity!