'Unusual' number of baby turtles washing ashore on island's beaches

MONDAY, JAN. 24: An influx of baby turtles have been found stranded on Bermuda’s beaches.

According to the Department of Conservation Services, it is normal for one or two to wash ashore but this year has seen a large increase.

Patrick Talbot, Curator of the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo, said: “This season is proving to be highly unusual in that we have received 17 turtles into our Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre since September, all small, ranging in size from six cm to 10 cm shell length, 12 of which have arrived in the last month alone. 

“Interestingly, the majority of the turtles admitted have been green turtles which is a very rare event.”

Seven were alive but two were dead. 

Of the eight loggerheads, four were alive but half were deceased.

Mr. Talbot said: “The turtles have been brought in by members of the public and have been rescued from all around the island, from the South Shore to the North Shore, and even in Hamilton Harbour. 

“Many of the turtles showed signs of recent trauma, with three succumbing to their injuries shortly after coming into our care. 

“One lucky green was even pulled from the beak of a hungry heron by an observant rescuer.”

Mark Outerbridge, coordinator of the Bermuda Turtle Project, said: “Sea turtles have a very complex life cycle, and spend different parts of it in different habitats. 

“These post-hatchling turtles were hatched sometime last summer and it is expected that these little sea turtles will be out in the open ocean for the next four to 12 years growing, depending on the species, before passing into the next stage of their development.”

Anyone who finds a baby turtle should bring it to the Bermuda Aquarium, Museum and Zoo, or contact them at 293-2727 for assistance.