Dubai: A significant number of sea turtles have washed ashore in Dubai over the last few days, likely due to high winds and cold temperatures. This unusual occurrence has prompted the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP) in Jumeirah to call for public assistance in rescuing the stranded turtles. The DTRP, which has been receiving an increasing number of calls, urged beachgoers to report any stranded turtles to their rescue hotline. They encouraged residents to take a walk along the beach and help out if possible.
Turtle Stranding During Cold Weather
The project explained that sea turtles, like other reptiles, cannot regulate their body temperature, making them more vulnerable during the winter months when the water temperature drops. Cold water leads to decreased activity in the turtles, and younger turtles are especially susceptible to sickness. Rough sea conditions exacerbate the situation, often causing them to drift towards the shore and become stranded.
In the last two days alone, DTRP has rescued 12 turtles. This spike in turtle strandings is a common occurrence during this time of the year, according to the group.
Rescue Efforts and Public Assistance
Since its inception in 2004, the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project has been dedicated to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing sea turtles back into the wild. The project has successfully treated and released thousands of turtles over the years.
The DTRP has provided guidelines for residents who find a stranded turtle. They recommend gently removing the turtle from the water and wrapping it in a wet towel to keep it hydrated. The team also cautioned against removing barnacles or oysters from the turtle's shell, as these encrusting creatures are part of the turtle’s natural ecosystem. Removing them can cause unnecessary pain and injury.
For anyone finding a distressed or stranded turtle, the DTRP urges them to call their dedicated toll-free hotline at 800TURTLE (800 887853) for advice and support.
The Importance of Preserving Marine Life
The DTRP also reminded the public about the importance of protecting the turtles during their rescue. Removing barnacles can lead to severe pain, infections, and tissue damage. Instead, the turtles should be kept in a cool, damp area while waiting for the team to arrive.
Residents like Sadia Anwar, a regular at Kite Beach, are taking action. “I saw the DTRP’s social media post, and I plan to go to the beach tomorrow morning to look for any stranded turtles. It’s important that as a community, we help protect sea animals,” said Sadia, who has previously rescued stranded animals and returned them to their natural habitat.
As temperatures fluctuate and storms continue to affect the region, the DTRP is urging all beachgoers to remain vigilant and report any sea turtles in distress to help ensure their safe return to the sea.
