Lorraine Williamson
Catalonia’s beaches are on the brink of a historic milestone, with 2025 shaping up to be the most successful nesting season yet for the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta).
From the quiet sands of the Ebro Delta to the rocky coves of the Costa Brava, the species is turning this stretch of the Mediterranean into one of its most important breeding areas in Spain.
Six out of every ten loggerhead turtle nests found in Catalonia this year are in the Ebro Delta. This accounts for a quarter of all those recorded nationwide. The first clutch of eggs was spotted here on 20 June, containing 119 eggs. Eight more nests have since been discovered, each with between 90 and 113 eggs. This brings the total number of viable eggs to 885.
Costa Brava’s surprise boom
Until recently, loggerhead turtle nests were unheard of in Girona province. But since 2022, eleven have been documented along the Costa Brava’s coastline. This puts the region ahead of Andalucia and even the Balearic Islands, traditionally strong turtle nesting zones. Conservationists say the area’s quieter, darker beaches provide ideal conditions for these vulnerable reptiles.
Why Catalonia — and why now?
Rising sea temperatures are driving turtles to expand their nesting range, but it’s not the only factor. Local fishermen, supported by marine conservation groups such as Fundación CRAM, have played a key role, ensuring that turtles accidentally caught in nets are safely returned to the sea. Strict protection measures around the Ebro Delta also help keep disturbances low.
From rarity to regular visitor
Before 2006, no loggerhead turtle had ever laid eggs on the Catalan coast. That changed with a single nest in Premià de Mar. This was a turning point that has since led to steadily rising numbers. Marine biologists see parallels with Italy’s experience, where annual nest counts have risen from a handful to several hundred.
Nature’s odds and challenges
Loggerhead turtles are built for long journeys, with adults capable of weighing up to 200 kilos and measuring over a metre in length. Yet the survival odds are daunting: only around 1% of hatchlings make it to adulthood. Storms, heavy rains, and human activity still pose risks, but the early signs this summer suggest the 2025 record will be broken before the season ends in October.
Loggerhead turtle travels over 6,000 kilometres to Vigo Port
A future with turtles on Catalonia’s coast
With more nests expected in the coming weeks, experts are cautiously optimistic. What was once an extraordinary event is becoming part of the region’s seasonal rhythm — a sign that Catalonia may now be a permanent home for the loggerhead turtle.
Source: El País