17 loggerhead turtles hatched from the nesting site at Gnejna, the Environment and Resources Authority (ERA) has said.

Out of a total of 18 fertilised eggs, only one egg remained unhatched, which the ERA described as an overwhelming success rate

"Two days after the first hatchings were noticed, the nest was inspected by a qualified vet. A total of 48 eggs were found, 30 of which were unfertilised."

This is the second turtle nesting site of this season, after another 32 turtles hatched from another nest at Ramla l-Hamra, in Gozo last week. The two nesting sites were identified when Nature Trust Malta (NTM-FEE) volunteers observed turtle crawls in the sand during routine early morning patrols. ERA immediately issued emergency conservation orders limiting certain activities at the two areas, to protect the nests.

The ERA said it would like to thank NTM-FEE and the volunteers engaged in this environmental work, for their commitment to the conservation of protected species in Malta and Gozo. "This work is possible through the ongoing collaboration between ERA and this eNGO. ERA funds the organisation's Wildlife Rescue Team and other efforts to rehabilitate injured or stranded protected species. Many volunteers dedicate long hours to support these invaluable actions."

ERA also thanks the public for their support and cooperation. The authority encourages everyone to immediately report any observations of wildlife in distress to NTM-FEE on 9999 9505 or ERA on 22923500 or through its customer care system.

The loggerhead turtle, scientifically known as Caretta caretta, is a long-living, slowly maturing marine species that inhabits tropical to warm temperate areas. This species is classified as globally endangered by the World Conservation Area (IUCN) and is also protected by various national and international legislation. Capturing, killing, taking, and trading these turtles, as well as the deliberate disturbance of these species, particularly during the period of breeding, rearing and migration, is prohibited and subject to legal action.

The destruction of eggs or the taking of eggs from the wild is strictly prohibited and constitutes a criminal offence.  The national 'Flora, Fauna and Natural Habitats Protection Regulations' impose a minimum fine of nearly €500 and going up to nearly €2400 for each egg that may be destroyed or taken from the wild.

Gnejna Bay and Ramla l-Hamra, where loggerhead turtles successfully laid eggs this summer, are among several protected coastal areas under the Environment Protection Act (Cap. 549). They are also listed as Natura 2000 sites through the EU Habitats Directive.