The coast of Almassora has become the scene of a significant discovery for marine wildlife conservation . Last Tuesday, the beach lifeguard service detected a possible sea turtle nest after several bathers reported seeing small hatchlings on the shore. The situation immediately mobilized specialized teams.
A swift intervention by lifeguards allowed the activation of the specific nest protection protocol . Upon the arrival of biologists from the University of Valencia and the Oceanogrà fic Foundation, the existence of the nest on Benafelà beach, directly opposite Pitillo Park, was confirmed. There, 11 newly hatched sea turtle hatchlings were identified along with 129 eggs , a discovery that has highlighted the ecological importance of this area on the Castellón coast.
The mayor, MarÃa Tormo , and the councilor for Beaches, Silvana Rovira , have highlighted the importance of the prompt action of the lifeguards , since thanks to their diligence it has been possible to preserve the nest and guarantee the safety of both the chicks and the eggs, avoiding possible risks from predators, inclement weather or human disturbances.
Almassora beach, a refuge for marine life
This is not the first time the Almassora coastline has stood out as a regular nesting site for sea turtles . In recent years, the beach has witnessed several similar events, solidifying this area as a strategic point in the species' life cycle. Last October, in nearby Pla de la Torre, 22 sea turtles born on the beach a year earlier were released into the sea . This release was made possible thanks to the collaboration of local residents, who alerted authorities to the presence of the hatchlings, facilitating their rescue and participation in a recovery project.
Most of those turtles were males, with only one female being detected among the group.
Scientific collaboration for conservation
The protection of nests and hatchlings is made possible through the joint efforts of various organizations, such as the Oceanogrà fic Foundation and the University of Valencia , which coordinate the scientific monitoring and care protocols. The turtles on Almassora beach have been included in the Head-starting program , which aims to help the animals reach the appropriate weight, size, and diving capabilities before being released back into the wild, thus increasing their chances of survival.
The Blue Marine Foundation also plays a role , housing the pups in its facilities during the final weeks before their release, providing ideal conditions for their strengthening and adaptation to the marine environment.
The role of citizens in protecting sea turtles
The role of the public is equally essential in protecting these nests. The beachgoers who spotted the first hatchlings were key to the rapid intervention and have demonstrated how collaboration between residents, lifeguards, and experts can contribute to maintaining local biodiversity.
Findings like this reinforce the status of Almassora beach as a natural sanctuary for sea turtles in the Mediterranean and underline the importance of continuing to promote biological monitoring and awareness projects among users and visitors.
The recent discovery of a nest on Benafelà Beach, along with the release of specimens and conservation programs, highlight the municipality's importance to the survival of sea turtles, consolidating the Almassora coast as a key location for the future of the species.