Nature Trust – FEE Malta – Gozo Section said that they are delighted to have a second turtle nest at Ramla Bay in Gozo for this year, sixth nest overall for the Maltese Islands

The NGO explained that in what was quite a rare event, a turtle emerged out of the sea at Ramla l-Hamra beach close to sunset on Sunday evening. However, she then quit her attempt as there were a lot of people around her and she went back to the sea.

The NGO said that almost an hour later she emerged again, whereby volunteers on duty started moving towels and people out of her path.

ERA – Environment & Resources Authority officials were notified and joined one of the Nature Trust – FEE Malta coordinators in helping to keep crowds away and give mama turtle her space.

“After very hesitantly crawling up, she decided it was a good spot and started digging her nesting chamber. This attempt was successful and we now have nest number 6,” the NGO said.

The NTM – Gozo Section expressed it thanks to ERA for helping in crowd control and also making sure the nest area was cordoned off for safety.

The ERA thanked the public for their support and cooperation, and urged them to report any turtle activity immediately by calling ERA on 2292 3500 or Nature Trust – FEE Malta on 9999 9505.

Volunteers are needed to help watch over the nests “it is an incredibly magical moment to witness the nesting process. No noise or flash photography is allowed. Night vision cameras are used to watch the turtle without disturbing her,” the volunteers said.

For anyone planning to enjoy the beach at night, it is simple to adapt torches/flashlights by fixing a red plastic filter on it – the red light does not disturb any turtles which are planning to come up and nest next to you, the NGO said.

They explained that a nest normally takes around two months for the eggs to incubate and the hatchlings are ready to come out. Helping to protect the nest will give a better chance to hopefully see the little hatchlings emerging from the nest. “This is an amazing experience to see the tiny hatchlings making their way in to the sea and start their arduous journey.”

Did you know that the estimated survival rate for baby sea turtles to reach adulthood (approx 20 years old for Loggerheads) is only 1 in 1000, so every single nest is precious.

Wildlife Rescue Team, Nature Trust – FEE Malta said that “volunteering is in itself very rewarding but as a bonus you will get to make a lot of new friends with common interests too. We are all passionate about sea turtles and work together as a team to try and help this amazing species.”

Anyone interested should please email turtle.ramla@gmail.com

Photo: Screengrab Wildlife Rescue Team, Nature Trust – FEE Malta

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