The Almassora coast has become the scene of a discovery relevant to the conservation of marine faunaLast Tuesday, the beach's lifeguard service detected a possible sea turtle nest after several swimmers noticed the presence of small hatchlings on the shore. The situation immediately mobilized specialized teams.
A quick intervention by the rescuers allowed activate the specific nest protection protocolUpon the arrival of biologists from the University of Valencia and the Oceanogrà fic Foundation, the existence of the nest was confirmed on Benafelà beach, just in front of Pitillo Park. There they were identified 11 newly hatched sea turtle hatchlings along with 129 eggs, a discovery that has highlighted the ecological importance of this enclave on the Castellón coast.
The mayor, Maria Tormo, and the Councilor for Beaches, Silvana Rovira, have highlighted the relevance of the prompt action by 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
It is not the first time that the Almassora coastline stands out as usual nesting site for sea turtles. In recent years, the beach has witnessed several similar episodes that consolidate this area as a strategic point for the life cycle of the species. Last October, in the nearby Pla de la Torre, the release into the sea of 22 sea turtles born on the beach a year earlier. This release was made possible thanks to the collaboration of neighbors, as some residents reported the presence of the pups, 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 newborn specimens is possible thanks to the joint action of different entities such as the Oceanogrà fic Foundation and the University of Valencia, which coordinates the scientific monitoring and care protocols. The turtles on Almassora beach have been included in the program. Head-starting, the aim of which is to help animals reach the appropriate weight, size and diving abilities before being returned to the wild, thereby increasing their chances of survival.
It also involves the Navy Blue Foundation, which houses the young in its facilities during the final weeks before their release, providing ideal conditions for their growth 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 swimmers who spotted the first hatchlings have been key in the rapid response and have demonstrated how the Collaboration between neighbors, rescuers, and experts can contribute to the maintenance of 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 projects and raising awareness 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.