Earlier this morning, divers from the diving centre Dune Malta made an unexpected discovery during a dive between Comino and Armier: a turtle struggling to dive, visibly distressed and tangled in rope and fishing line.

On approaching the animal, the divers realised the turtle had ingested multiple strings of rope and fishing line, which were hanging from her mouth and connected to a larger mass of entangled debris. Acting quickly, they brought her aboard their boat and immediately contacted the Wildlife Rescue Team Malta for assistance.

The turtle, now affectionately named Dune, was found to have a severely swollen front flipper from the entanglement and three ropes and a fishing line emerging from her mouth, making it impossible for her to dive or feed properly. She was safely transported to the Wildlife Rescue Team’s care, where a vet will now work tirelessly to treat her injuries and aid her recovery.

‘Her recovery journey will likely be long and complicated, but our vet will do everything possible to save her,’ the Wildlife Rescue Team shared.

All turtles rescued by the team are protected species, and it is illegal in Malta to keep them as pets. The organisation’s trained volunteers are fully licensed and equipped to handle wildlife rescues, ensuring these vulnerable animals receive the expert care they need.

Members of the public are reminded: if you ever spot an injured or distressed wild animal, please call the Wildlife Rescue Team immediately on 9999 9505. Your call could make all the difference!

The team also expressed heartfelt thanks to the divers who acted swiftly, their dedicated volunteers, and the veterinary professionals who continue to support Malta’s wildlife around the clock.

Donations to help fund ongoing rescues and rehabilitation efforts are always welcome too! You can contribute via Bank Transfer / Revolut: (IBAN: MT18 VALL 2201 3000 0000 4002 353 8289 & SWIFT: VALLMTMT) or via BOV Mobile, using the number 9999 9505.

Well done to everyone involved in the rescue!