URGENT UPDATE: A disturbing situation is unfolding in Port Stephens, Australia, as authorities report the discovery of more dead and dying sea turtles. This marks a significant escalation in a mysterious illness that has already claimed the lives of at least 32 turtles. Affected turtles are exhibiting alarming symptoms, including bleeding from the eyes and disorientation, leaving investigators scrambling for answers.
Just yesterday, August 13, three additional turtles were rescued by the not-for-profit organization Sea Shelter, with two found dead and one still alive but gravely ill. Co-founder Lia Pereira expressed hope that the live turtle could provide crucial insights into this troubling situation. “We finally have a live one as of yesterday,” Lia told Yahoo News. “It’s hopefully going to help us solve it. We’re still waiting on results.”
Time is of the essence, as these reptiles typically succumb to the illness within one to two days after arriving at the rescue center. Even post-mortem exams on deceased turtles could shed light on the underlying cause of this crisis. Lia noted that the dead turtles began washing ashore several weeks after severe flooding hit the area in late May. However, the majority of deaths have occurred within the past month, raising concerns about the environmental impact of the rainfall.
“The common factor is the huge rainfall, the extended periods of rainfall that we’re having,” Lia explained. Yet, she cautioned that the solution may not be straightforward. “If it was just a water quality issue, we would’ve known instantly. Is it just about weather, or is there something more sinister going on?”
Local residents are on high alert as sick turtles continue to surface along the coast. Sue Fidler, owner of Bay Harbour Cafe in Nelson Bay, reported seeing a sick turtle floating outside her venue on the same day. Tragically, she previously found a dead turtle just a week earlier. “We police our little patch vigorously,” she said, emphasizing the community’s commitment to protecting these endangered creatures.
The local fishing business, Fish Port Stephens Estuary Charters, recently shared a concerning video on Facebook showing another deceased turtle floating in the water. The turtle appeared to have no obvious injuries, prompting the business to label the situation as “worrying.” “Investigations are underway, but it’s a worrying sight — especially with Port Stephens being the stronghold for turtles in NSW,” they stated in their post.
The NSW Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water has confirmed that investigations are ongoing. They advise anyone who finds a sick or dead turtle in the area to contact Sea Shelter or Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters at (02) 4982 2476. Additionally, the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service can be reached at 1300 072 757.
This alarming trend is a stark reminder of the environmental challenges facing marine life in Australia. As the community rallies to protect these turtles, the urgent quest for answers continues. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
