Approximately 100-year-old Caretta Caretta washes ashore in Ayvalık

In theSarımsaklı beach of the Ayvalık district of Balıkesir, a dead Caretta Caretta estimated to be around 100 years old was found.

Citizens walking on Sarımsaklı beach in the morning hours discovered a dead Caretta Caretta turtle. It is estimated that the Caretta Caretta that washed ashore is approximately 100 years old.

Aquatic Sciences Expert Nedim Kartalstated,“This is an adult Caretta Caretta. They can grow up to a maximum of 160 kilograms. It is likely a male. From what I saw in the video, the possibility of it dying just by getting caught in nets is very low. If you ask why, they never come ashore except to lay eggs. They can stay underwater for a very long time.” he said.

Noting that Caretta Carettas are protected, Kartal added,“There is also a possibility that it was caused by external factors. I don't think getting caught in a net would cause that much damage. Our region is not warm enough for Caretta Carettas to lay eggs; there are no nesting grounds here. Ayvalık is on their migration route. This region is an area they pass through during their travels. That is why we only encounter them occasionally. Their population has increased slightly compared to the past on the coasts of Belek, and significant success has been achieved with the measures taken against extinction.” he said.

News Source: İHA