In an extraordinary event early this morning, a large loggerhead turtle laid eggs on Poniente Beach in Benidorm, Alicante. The turtle returned to the sea shortly after, while the local police cordoned off the area to protect the nest.
The event occurred around 7.30 am, and was witnessed by several beachgoers. They promptly alerted the local police, according to a statement from the Benidorm City Council.
Immediate response
Police officers quickly arrived at the scene, securing the area. In the mean time they were awaiting experts from the Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology at the University of Valencia (UA) and the Oceanogràfic. These specialists will soon assess the number of eggs deposited by the turtle.
Expert involvement
Personnel from the Cavanilles Institute and the Oceanogràfic are essential in these situations. They provide the expertise needed to handle and protect the turtle eggs. Their involvement ensures that the eggs are kept safe until they hatch, promoting the conservation of this endangered species.
Collaboration with local authorities
The rural guard from the Benidorm City Council is also assisting in the protocol established for such events, ensuring all measures are taken to protect the nest. The collaborative effort highlights the importance of community and expert involvement in wildlife conservation.
Conservation efforts
Loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) are listed as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN. Consequently, this makes every successful nesting event crucial for their survival. The efforts to secure and protect the nest in Benidorm demonstrate a commitment to the conservation of marine life and the environment.
Public awareness
This event also serves as an educational opportunity, raising public awareness about the importance of protecting endangered species and their habitats. Witnesses to the event and the wider community are reminded of the delicate balance between human activity and wildlife conservation.
The Benidorm City Council’s swift action and the involvement of the Cavanilles Institute and the Oceanogràfic are commendable steps towards ensuring the safety and future of the loggerhead turtle’s eggs.
Also read: 49 young sea turtles released back into the sea in Marbella