The body of a loggerhead turtle was rescued by agents of the Civil Guard after being found in the coastal area of Rojas, in the El Sauzal municipality of Tenerife. Despite being quickly removed from the water, the turtle had likely died from having hooks stuck in its mouth.
Personnel from the Nature Protection Service (Seprona) and the Fiscal and Border Patrol of the Puerto de la Cruz Company responded to reports of a potentially injured turtle in Rojas after a local resident raised the alarm.
To act swiftly, the agents brought the turtle out of the sea to assess its condition. Unfortunately, it was found lifeless with several hooks lodged in its mouth, suggesting that they were the cause of death, as reported by the Civil Guard.
A specific protocol was activated upon identifying the turtle as a loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), an endangered species, in accordance with established regulations.
The deceased turtle was transported by Civil Guard agents to the Wildlife Recovery Centre “La Tahonilla,” under the authority of the Cabildo de Tenerife, to determine the cause of death.
The Civil Guard highlights that major threats to this species include the presence of plastics in the sea, trawling nets, longlines, and traps, emphasising the need for collective efforts towards protection.
It is emphasised that in cases of marine animal strandings on beaches, avoiding further suffering and aiding their recovery and return to the sea is crucial. Unauthorized intervention may result in infractions and hinder professional treatment.
Cetaceans and sea turtles are highly safeguarded and any actions causing harm, disturbance, pursuit, manipulation, or reintroduction must have explicit authorization from the relevant authorities.
Quick reporting of strandings to emergency services is essential to ensure proper handling of the situation. Reintroduction of animals into the sea is discouraged as it may lead to further harm.
