MEPA said today that a a marine turtle laid a number of eggs yesterday, Wednesday, the 20th of June, at Il-Gnejna. “In this case this is the first confirmed sea turtle nesting event in Malta after a century, although other unconfirmed records of such events have been reported from other beaches in the last 50 years.”

Marine turtles are endangered species and are strictly protected by a number of national and international legislation. In fact, Article 12 of the Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora, together with the Regulation 25 of the Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitat Protection Regulations (L.N. 311 of 2006, as amended) state that the deliberate disturbance of these species, particularly during the period of breeding, rearing, hibernation and migration, is prohibited.

MEPA said that it is taking the necessary action to assess the situation and evaluate the best approach to be taken in response to this event. Furthermore MEPA is coordinating with the Ministry for Tourism, Culture and the Environment; the Malta Police Force; and officials within the Ministry for Resources and Rural Affairs on the best course of action.

The public is reminded that because of the importance of the eggs in question, taking of pets and music should be avoided at all times, until further notice. Deliberate disturbance to the eggs in question is also strictly prohibited.

To report any similar events or require more information please contact MEPA on 99210404 / 99381811 or nature.requests@mepa.org.mt

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