On the occasion of the recent reports of citizens about the strong presence of sea turtles in our shallow waters, the Department of Fisheries and Marine Research (TATHE) informs the public that the sighting of turtles in the shallow waters of Cyprus is normal for this period and does not cause no concern their presence. During the summer season, the presence of sea turtles is strong in our coastal waters and mainly in shallow waters, where the Green Turtle mates and feeds mainly on marine plants and crustaceans (ie crabs, etc.) and fish the Caretta Turtle.
In the waters of Cyprus and our beaches, during the spawning season, we are lucky enough to host two of the seven species of sea turtles in the world. These two species are the Carettacaretta and the Green Turtle (Cheloniamydas). Both are spectacular and emblematic species and their presence in our areas is part of their life cycle for both feeding and mating and spawning. Sea turtles are migratory species. They use the beaches of Cyprus for their nesting and then, at the end of the spawning season, most of them start their journey to other areas of the Mediterranean that are their feeding grounds and where they will stay until they make the journey again for the their reproductive activity. TATHE gives below some basic information / tips for our proper behaviour towards these protected species: - To observe the sea turtles from a distance, without touching them, so as not to cause them any nuisance. - Do not offer food to sea turtles. This affects the physical behaviour of the animals and may also have a negative effect on their natural feeding instinct. Marine animals have the ability to feed on their own. - In photography, limit the number of photos of individual animals, especially when using a flash. Sea turtles live free in their natural environment and we are just visitors to their own home. The moment of our encounter with such a species as the sea turtle, makes us witnesses of nature in its purest form and we must, as far as possible, each with his actions and deeds, to maintain it as such. It is reminded that in case of locating an injured sea turtle, the public can contact TATHE on the landlines shown below during normal public hours. Please note that, outside of business hours, the public can contact the following service telephones:|
PROVINCE |
Office phone no – Weekdays [0730-1500] |
Out of hours telephone [1600-2000 daily] [0600-2000 Sat/Sun] |
|
Nicosia |
22 807853 |
N/A |
|
Larnaca |
24 304294/24 422 888 |
99 489645 |
|
Famagusta |
23 834172 |
99 489643 |
|
Limassol |
25 306800/25 306 804 |
99 489651 |
|
Paphos |
26 821680 |
99 489642 |
The injured turtles are transported by TATHE staff or authorized bodies for treatment to the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre that operates at the Cyprus Marine Aquaculture Research Center (ETHYK) of TATHE in Meneou. (MG / FIG)
