How to help the newborn turtles reach the sea in Greece

In a Facebook post, the Association for the Protection of the Sea Turtle ARCHELON informed the public about how to help newborn turtles reach the sea successfully.

ARCHELON wrote: “Besides the nesting beaches that ARCHELON monitors in Zakynthos, Peloponnese and Crete, due to the phenomenon of sporadic spawning, baby turtles can appear anywhere on the Greek coast!”

“We have received dozens of reports from citizens about baby turtles emerging on beaches such as those of Syros, Folegandros, Donoussa, and even Attica. If you find baby turtles this year, please:

– call the 24-hour rescue number of ARCHELON 6941 511 511

– follow the instructions of ARCHELON

– Share the instructions of ARCHELON for the correct information on the world.”

The detailed instructions given to the world to protect and help the baby turtles on their first journey are as follows:

“Don’t touch them. Contact with people must be limited.

“Do not put them in the sea. It is important that they arrive on their own.

“Do not take pictures with a flash. Light can disorient them.

“Avoid the beach during the evening hours. Let them hatch undisturbed.

“Protect them from the hot sun. Shade them with your body or towel.

“Protect them from enemies. Drive birds or other animals away from them.

“Ease their way. Flatten the sand and remove any obstructions.

“Lightly tap the sand in front of them. The vibrations can guide them in the right direction.

“Turn off the artificial lights on the beach at night. Let them orient themselves by the light of the moon.”

This year, let’s help the turtles live in any way we can!

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