PHOTOS: Massive Rare Turtle Dies In Gozo Despite Valiant Rescue Attempt

Photos: David Hayler-Montague / Facebook

Despite their best efforts, a team of rescuers were unable to save the life of a juvenile Leatherback turtle in Gozitan waters.

The rare sea creature weighed a whopping 190kgs, and had to be lifted mechanically onto the vessel. Leatherbacks are one of three sea turtles who call the Mediterranean home, but are known for being an extremely rare sight.

According to David Hayler-Montague, one of the people attempting the rescue, the turtle’s stomach was found to be completely stuffed with plastic.

“Please everyone cut down on your plastic use and dispose of it responsibly. If you see a plastic bag, straw, wrapping, anything pick it up and put it in the bin. You really can make a difference and save a turtle’s life.”

One comment on the post said the turtle may have died earlier after being caught in a floating piece of plastic, hindering its movement or even potentially choking it to death.

Scientists aren’t sure how long they live, with many safely guessing their lifespan can top 50 years, and some upper estimations even exceed 100 years.

Share to remind everyone why we keep plastic out of our seas

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