In a heartwarming tale of conservation efforts and community support, volunteers in the coastal town of Cervia, along Italy's popular Adriatic coast, have rallied together to protect a sea turtle nest. The nest, containing a remarkable 91 eggs, was discovered on a popular beach, prompting marine biologists and volunteers to take immediate action.
Italy's picturesque Adriatic coastline is a magnet for holidaymakers and sun-seekers, but this year, beachgoers are being urged to exercise extra caution while enjoying the sandy shores. In June, a loggerhead sea turtle chose this very beach in Cervia to lay her precious eggs, just a few meters away from beach loungers and parasols.
Recognizing the significance of the situation, marine biologists from the Turtles of the Adriatic Organization (TAO) promptly stepped in.
"We picked up these 91 eggs, which had been laid by the female turtle, and we moved them to a new nest. We have re-built the nest exactly as it was originally, and we have positioned the eggs in the same order in which they were laid," explained Andrea Ferrari from TAO.
To ensure the safety and well-being of the eggs, the new nest has been carefully fenced off and is now under the vigilant watch of up to 130 dedicated volunteers. Around the clock, these volunteers guard the nest, ensuring that no harm comes to the precious cargo it holds.
While marine turtles have long inhabited the Adriatic Sea during the summer months, researchers have noticed an increase in their presence during the winter season in recent years. Simone D'Acunto from the Centre for Habitat Protection (Cestha) shed light on this trend.
"Because of climate change and the increasingly warmer waters, the turtles tend to remain in our sea for longer periods of time. Historically, they hang out in these wasters, because the upper Adriatic Sea is an area for nutrition, but now they stay here even during the winter season, rather than migrating to other warmer waters, as they used to do in the past,” he added.
The dedication of the volunteers in safeguarding the sea turtle nest is a testament to the growing concern for the environment and the importance of protecting endangered species. Their tireless efforts ensure that these sea turtle hatchlings have the best chance of survival as they make their journey from nest to sea.
In the latter half of August, the eggs will hatch, and baby turtles will emerge, taking their first steps toward the vast ocean. It is a crucial period for these hatchlings, as they face numerous challenges during their initial journey.
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