The El Torres beach in Villajoyosa was the scene last Sunday of an exceptional event with the hatching of approximately 70 loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) hatchlings. These tiny turtles emerged from a nest that had gone unnoticed during its incubation period.
The incident occurred in the afternoon when a young beachgoer spotted one of the turtles on the sand and alerted authorities. The Local Police and the 112 emergency service received multiple calls, immediately activating the established protocol.
Specialists from the Oceanogràfic of Valencia and the NGO Xaloc traveled to the area to locate the nest and carry out the necessary checks. In the end, around 70 hatchlings were counted.
The majority of the hatchlings could be released directly into the Mediterranean from the beach itself. About a dozen turtles were transferred to the Oceanogràfic of Valencia to participate in the "head-starting" conservation program.
This program involves the turtles remaining under specialized care in a controlled environment during their first months of life, promoting their growth before their subsequent release back into the sea.
“"What we have experienced on El Torres beach is one of those images that remind us of the enormous natural heritage we have in Villajoyosa. Seeing these little turtles reach the Mediterranean from one of our beaches is very special for the entire city and, at the same time, reaffirms us in the need to continue caring for and protecting our coastline."
Mayor Marcos Zaragoza highlighted the importance of the event as a reminder of the local natural heritage. He also thanked the public's cooperation and the swift action of the professionals involved.
“"Our beaches are much more than spaces for swimming and enjoyment. They are living ecosystems that we must protect, conserve, and respect, and moments like the one we have experienced on El Torres beach remind us of this in a very special way."
The Councillor for Beaches and Environment, Carlos Soler, emphasized the environmental value of the coastline and thanked the young man who detected the first hatchling, as well as the cooperation of the bathers present, whose behavior he described as exemplary.
The Villajoyosa City Council reminds the public of the importance of not touching or handling marine specimens, nor approaching nests. It is recommended to maintain distance, avoid lights and disturbances, and report any sightings to 112.
