AFTER the discovery of the first nest of a loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta) in Croatia at the beginning of September , on the beach in Lumbarda on the island of Korčula, the Blue World Institute has announced another important piece of news for the conservation of this strictly protected marine species. Several more small loggerhead turtles were found at the same location, Pržina beach, but one young turtle unfortunately died, while the others were found hypothermic and weak.
The reason for this is their late hatching, but also sudden weather changes. The storm that recently hit the Adriatic cooled the sea, which further reduced the mobility of young turtles. In addition, the incoming south makes their natural journey towards the open sea and further into the Mediterranean even more difficult, which significantly reduces their chances of survival in the wild.
The Blue World Institute urges all residents of Korčula, especially those near Pržina beach, to be vigilant in the coming days. If you notice young turtles on the beach or in shallow water, it is important to contact experts immediately so that their condition can be assessed in a timely manner and, if necessary, transport to the Lošinj Sea Turtle Sanctuary can be organized.
“Your tip could literally save their lives,” the Institute says, emphasizing that cases like this require quick and professional intervention.
The contact for reports is e-mail info@blue-world.org or number 051 604 666, or 091 567 0938.
These discoveries and the reactions of the local community represent an important step in the monitoring and protection of loggerhead turtles in the Adriatic, and the potential second nest in Lumbarda indicates the successful start of breeding of this species on the Croatian coast, which is an extremely rare and precious event.
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