2024: A record-breaking year
In summer 2024, Malta and Gozo saw a record eight loggerhead turtle nests—surpassing the previous high of seven in 2020 These nesting events occurred on several sandy beaches:
- Golden Bay (Ramla tal‑Mixquqa) – initial nesting spot and multiple clutches
- Ġnejna Bay – home to the season’s 5th nest, laid by the same turtle that nested at Golden Bay
- Ramla l‑Ħamra (Gozo) – most recent nesting site, with at least eight confirmed there
- Further nesting: while data is sparser, historical nesting has also occurred in Għadira Bay and Fajtata Bay
Between 2020–2023, ten loggerhead nests were documented, averaging ~85 eggs per clutch with ~59% successful hatching .
Why it matters to surfers
- Rare events: Sandy beaches represent just ~2.5–2.4% of our coastline . Nesting here is a precious and infrequent occurrence.
- Nocturnal & sensitive: Turtles nest at night, and hatchlings crawl out across the beach to sea—both easily disoriented by light and noise
- Global warming ripple: Increased nestings may be linked to warming seas—which also skew hatchling sex ratios toward females.
Tips for surfers & beachgoers
🌓 Evening & night conditions
- Turn off lights near pressed-shore zones after dark. Artificial lighting confuses both nesting females and hatchlings heading to the sea (ohmymalta.com.mt.)
- Stay quiet and minimize noise—vibrations can scare nesting turtles (ohmymalta.com.mt.)
🚫 On the Beach During Nesting Season
- Respect fenced zones: ERA/NTM cordon off nests—don’t cross or place towels, umbrellas, or beach gear near them
- Avoid trampling or digging in marked areas—disturbing nests can crush eggs .
- No flash photography or torches—bright lights can mislead turtles .
🏄♂️ Surf Etiquette
- Stay offshore if you spot nesting/hatching activity—avoid hovering over beach zones at night.
- Report it: Contact ERA (2292 3500) or Nature Trust Malta (9999 9505) immediately if you see a turtle coming onto the beach.
🧗♀️ During Hatching
- Let hatchlings make their own way; don’t pick them up, shine lights, or block their exit path .
🧼 General beach awareness
- Fill any deep holes you dig that could trap hatchlings.
- Remove obstacles like beach furniture or toys at dusk.
- Keep beaches clean—litter and obstructions hinder sea turtle movement
Why your help counts
- High hatchling mortality: Only ~6% of hatchlings survive to adulthood
- Fragile local events: Our few sandy beaches mean each nesting event is valuable—Sirens Bay or Golden Bay could be the only nesting site in a year.
- Collective effort works: This year, 200+ volunteers helped guard nests during peak season .
Join the effort
If you’d like to volunteer or report turtle activity:
- ERA: 2292 3500
- Nature Trust Malta (NTM): 9999 9505 or turtle.naturetrust@gmail.com
Surfing with purpose
Your respect and vigilance can be a lifesaver—turn off lights, mind your noise, respect fences, report sightings, and enjoy the magic of witnessing nature’s guests. Let’s protect these mariners-of-the-night, so future Bomba readers can say: “I saw hatchlings dash across the sand into the surf.”
You can find more info via the Environment & Resources Authority and Nature Trust Malta—let’s ride responsibly.
