🌊🐢 Rare Marine Surprise on Welsh Shores!
An unusual guest made waves on Newport Sands, Pembrokeshire recently. A Kemp’s ridley sea turtle, renowned as the world’s rarest marine turtle, was spotted on January 12th. These majestic creatures seldom grace UK waters, making the sighting extra special.
Initially spotted by a beachgoer, the turtle’s whereabouts became a mystery when it wasn’t reported immediately to Marine Environmental Monitoring and the Cetacean Strandings Investigation Programme (CSIP). By the time experts arrived, it had vanished — perhaps carried away by tides or human hands.
Why the fuss? Kemp’s ridley turtles are critically endangered. Their numbers plummeted in the 1980s, confined to a singular nesting beach in Mexico with their eggs often harvested. Fortunately, conservation efforts, such as protecting nesting sites and relocating eggs, have made a difference, but these turtles remain incredibly vulnerable.
Kemp’s ridleys can’t handle the chilly UK waters. When exposed to cold, they become “cold-stunned” — a dangerous condition that slows their biology dramatically, potentially leading to death without human intervention.
Spot an unexpected marine visitor? Report it quickly (and safely) via the UK & Irish Turtle Code. Awareness and swift reporting can save lives!
And remember, handling any marine turtle without a licence is illegal — they, along with dolphins, whales, and porpoises, are all protected by law. For history buffs, the largest leatherback turtle was found in Wales back in 1988 at Harlech, now showcased at the National Museum in Cardiff.
Stay curious and keep an eye out! Who knows what other miraculous visitors may grace the Welsh coasts? 🌿🏖️ #WildlifeWednesday #MarineMysteries #ConservationMatters