This summer the loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) are becoming real protagonists of Spanish beaches, especially on the Mediterranean coast. The appearance of new nests and the increase in releases of young specimens reflect both the progressive recovery of the species as the impact of environmental changes and the social awareness that is being generated around its conservation.
The coasts of Mojacar, in Almeria, and other areas of the peninsula are witnessing a trend that, although still sporadic, is increasing after years of efforts to protect marine biodiversity. The most recent case has taken place on the beach of Mojácar, where the Nesting of a female loggerhead turtle and the laying of 99 eggs, the fifth documented event in the province of AlmerÃa since 2001.
Discovery and protection of the nest in Mojácar
The location of this nest was possible thanks to the early warning from municipal cleaning services and rapid communication to emergency telephone number 112, which enabled the nesting protection protocol to be activated. Technicians and environmental agents, along with volunteers from the Equinac association and the local police, went to the beach in front of the Parador Nacional and confirmed the presence of the female in the process of nesting.
After assessing the risk of flooding at the original point, experts determined transfer some of the eggs to an incubation center controlled in Oasys Minihollywood (Tabernas) and relocate the rest to a safer area of ​​the same beach. 79 eggs remain in Mojácar, under strict surveillance and protection measures, while 20 are being incubated in specialized facilities.
The importance of cooperation between local authorities and specialized entities has been key to maximizing the eggs' chances of survival and, thus, contributing to the species' future in the Mediterranean.
Citizen involvement and protocol for sightings
El role of citizenship It is crucial for the conservation of the loggerhead sea turtle. Municipalities and the Andalusian Regional Government emphasize the need to respect certain guidelines: do not approach the turtles or nests, avoid making noise or illuminating marked areas, and always keep pets on a leash away from the nesting area. If you find any traces in the sand or sight any animals, it's best to call 112 without interfering with the process.
This type of behavior can make the difference between the success or failure of a spawning event. Furthermore, experts emphasize that incubation temperature It is decisive for the sex of the offspring and that the global warming could pose an additional threat, since temperatures above 25ºC favor the birth of females.
In recent years, the coast of AlmerÃa, as well as other Mediterranean regions, has recorded several nesting events - such as those in Vera, Pulpà and various points in Mojácar - confirming that The Andalusian and eastern Spanish coasts are gaining prominence as areas of expansion of the loggerhead.
Conservation and monitoring of the species
The Andalusian Government and the Ministry of Sustainability, together with voluntary entities and the Ministry for Ecological Transition, maintain a constant work of surveillance, training and social awarenessThe collaboration of groups like Equinac is essential for protecting the nests and raising awareness among swimmers and residents.
Over the next few weeks, the Mojácar nest will be monitored day and night until the eggs hatch. It is expected that in about two months, the youngsters begin their journey to the sea, at a particularly delicate time. These actions reinforce a collective commitment to biodiversity involving both institutions and the local population.
Situation and challenges of the loggerhead turtle
La loggerhead It is a species classified as vulnerable in the Andalusian Catalogue of Threatened Species and is considered "Endangered" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). The main threats it faces include marine plastic pollution, bycatch and coastal habitat alterations.
The proliferation of nests in the south and east of the peninsula may be due to the adaptation of the species to the climate change as well as the success of protection campaigns and greater awareness among citizens. The administrations insist on the importance of follow the recommendations before any sighting to promote the survival of the species and the viability of future generations.
Data collected in recent years and the provision of resources for monitoring and nest protection, as well as the growing involvement of residents and tourists, allow for a certain degree of optimism: every timely call and every protective action can be key to ensuring that these emblematic sea turtles remain part of our natural heritage.
