Experts alarmed as dead turtles with bleeding eyes wash up on Australia’s beaches: ‘It’s very, very worrying’
Investigation launched as vulnerable animals wash up dead
- At least 32 turtles, including 25 vulnerable green turtles, have been found washed up dead on shores across the Port Stephens Council area in New South Wales, Australia.
- Some of the deceased turtles exhibited unusual symptoms, such as bleeding around the eyes, which conservationists describe as very worrying.
- Multiple agencies, including New South Wales's National Parks and Wildlife Services and Taronga Zoo, are conducting a thorough investigation, collecting samples for testing, with autopsy data expected in several weeks.
- Sea Shelter, a marine rescue group, recorded 25 green turtle deaths in the past month in Port Stephens, with one founder noting an increase in deaths after recent flooding in the area.
- The public has been urged to report any sick or injured sea turtles to the National Parks and Wildlife Services or Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters.