A total of 65 eggs hatched successfully from Johanna the turtle’s second nest at Ramla l-Hamra, Gozo. Hatching had started during the evening of the 14th of August.

Following the third night from hatching, today, the nest was inspected by Wildlife Rescue Team Malta in the presence of Nature Trust – FEE Malta, Nature Trust – FEE Malta – Gozo Section officials and ERA – Environment and Resources Authority officials.

The nest contained a total of 96 eggs.Wildlife Rescue Team Malta said that out of these, 24 were not fertilised, 7 were fertilised but stopped developing or died after pipping, and the remaining 65 hatched successfully (9 were alive but stuck underneath and were allowed to make their crawl to the sea).

Following the low rate of fertilisation for Johanna’s 1st nest, when just 26 hatchlings made it to the sea, these results for her 2nd nest are more encouraging, the NGO said. Her 3rd and final nest for the season was laid on the 15th of July and will be the next to hatch.

From the total nest there was a 68% hatch rate. Out of the fertilised eggs, 90% hatched successfully.

Wildlife Rescue Team Malta said that none of this work would be possible without the over 300 volunteers between Malta & Gozo, who monitor the nests day & night.

Photos: Wildlife Rescue Team Malta, Jessica Pollman and Sabine Roesel

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