The Civil Guard, through its Nature Protection Service (SEPRONA) and the Fiscal and Border Patrol of the Puerto de la Cruz Company, received a notification from the Complex Operations Center (COC) to attend to a report of a potentially injured turtle in the coastal area of Rojas, El Sauzal. Upon arrival, the agents discovered the turtle was not breathing and had multiple hooks in its mouth, indicating a possible cause of death.
Following regulations, the protocol for encountering a protected species was initiated as the turtle was identified as a Loggerhead turtle (Caretta Caretta), classified as endangered.
The deceased turtle was then transported to the Wildlife Recovery Centre (CRFS) “La Tahonilla” for further examination to determine the exact cause of death.
It is important to highlight that the main threats to this species include plastic pollution in the sea, fishing nets, longlines, traps, among others, emphasizing the need for collective efforts towards its conservation.
Guidelines for dealing with stranded marine animals on beaches:
- Do not attempt to handle or reintroduce stranded sea turtles without proper authorisation, as it may prevent them from receiving necessary care from trained professionals, and could lead to legal consequences.
- Cetaceans and sea turtles are protected species and any interaction with them requires explicit permission from the competent authorities to avoid causing harm or distress.
- In case of a stranding, promptly contact emergency services at 112 or 062. Refrain from re-entering animals into the sea as it can worsen their condition.
