Students from the Eastern Mediterranean Underwater Research and Imaging Centre released 50 Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta Caretta) hatchlings into the sea, Turkish Cypriot daily ‘Havadis Kibris’ reports.
Director of the research centre Burak Ali Cicek, speaking to the press said they were establishing a great team of students from around the world to ensure sea turtles and their nests are protected and that they reach the sea unharmed.
Marine Team coordinator Hasan Akbor said that sea turtles are an important symbol for Cyprus and for tourism. “In this project we can say we are successful. However, coastal urbanisation, vehicles entering coastal areas, street lighting and stray animals are major problems”, he noted.
Research director Cicek added that relevant government agencies needed to show more interest in the issue.
