The Caretta caretta turtles of Campania are increasingly vulnerable, due to accidental fishing and cold temperatures
"Let's save the turtles!": The desperate appeal comes fromProtected Marine Area of Punta Campanella, one of the richest areas of natural beauty and biodiversity of our peninsula. This stretch of coast is known for the presence of sea turtles Cart cart, which nest in the summer season. But now these precious sea creatures are in danger.
In the last month about 15 specimens have been found dead on the beaches of Campania, in particular in the places north of Naples, as reported by the volunteers of the ENPA (National Body for the Protection of Animals). But the death tolls could be even higher. A dramatic situation that is occurring after the boom of nests recorded last summer along the coasts of Campania, with 57 ascertained sites and almost 3 thousand baby turtles born.
Posted by Area Marina Protetta Punta Campanella on Thursday, January 27, 2022
Winter is a critical period for these animals - explain the managers of the Marine Protected Area of Punta Campanella, which has been involved for years in the regional coordination that protects the Caretta caretta species - The low sea temperature numbs the turtles. They are more fragile and exposed to dangers, such as accidental fishing or impact with boats. In addition to the usual problem of ingested plastic.
Posted by Area Marina Protetta Punta Campanella on Thursday, January 27, 2022
To prevent other turtles from facing death, the staff of the marine protected area has launched an appeal:
We ask fishermen not to immediately throw them back into the sea if they are found in their nets. They could die of embolism or drowning due to prolonged stay in the mesh sac. In these cases, as many fishermen already do, the authorities must be alerted, starting with the Port Authority or the regional reference centers. The same goes for some boaters or anyone who should spot a turtle in distress.
What to do if you come across a turtle in distress
But what to do if we meet a turtle in trouble? In case of sighting of sea turtles in danger in the south of the Gulf of Naples and north of the Gulf of Salerno, contact the Amp Punta Campanella or the number 3389911550. In other areas, however, the Harbor Master's Office or the Station must be alerted. Zoologica A. Dorhn.
Source: Punta Campanella Marine Protected Area
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