A heartbreaking sight! A dead turtle washed up at Balluta Bay in St Julian’s this morning. According to reports, the turtle was presumed to be about 17 years of age.

“This morning a sea turtle washed up ashore in Balluta Bay, with a large fishing hook stuck in its mouth. Unfortunately, the turtle didn't make it,” the Sliema Local Council said on social media this morning.

"Sooner or later, we will have to recognise that the Earth has rights, too, to live without pollution. What mankind must know is that human beings cannot live without Mother Earth, but the planet can live without humans,” the council said, quoting Evo Morales.

According to Times of Malta, Vince Attard (representing Nature Trust) said the exact cause of death is being determined, however, at first glance, it was likely caused by the swallowing of a fishing line – a main cause of death and injury among the sea creatures.