Saving Dubai's Sea Turtles: A Community Effort
Sea Turtles on the Shores – How Can We Help?
The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project (DTRP) recently issued a call for help to the public after a significant number of sea turtles washed ashore on Dubai's beaches in the past few days. Due to strong winds and cold seawater, the turtles struggle to regulate their body temperature, leaving them weakened on the shore. Over the last two days, the project team has taken in 12 turtles, which is a completely common occurrence for this time of year.
The Importance of Turtle Rescue
Sea turtles, like other reptiles, cannot regulate their body temperature and are less active in the colder months. Young turtles are particularly prone to illness when the sea is restless, and waves push them towards the shore. Since 2004, the DTRP has been working to find, care for, and return weakened and injured turtles to the wild. Over the years, thousands of turtles have been able to return to the ocean thanks to the care of the project's experts.
What to do if you find a turtle on the shore?
The DTRP asks everyone to follow these steps if they find a stranded or injured turtle:
1. Remove them from the water – The turtle should be gently taken out of the water to prevent it from being swept back by the current.
2. Keep them moist – Wrap them in a wet towel, which helps maintain their body temperature.
3. Do not remove parasites – Shellbarnacles and crabs on the turtle's shell are part of marine life, and removing them can cause pain and infections.
4. Call the helpline – Report the turtle by calling the toll-free number 800TURTLE (800 887853), and the DTRP specialists will provide further guidance.
The project team cares for turtles at the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Al Naseem facilities, where they receive proper treatment and rehabilitation.
The Community’s Role in Turtle Rescue
Local residents have also joined the initiative. Kate, who frequently visits Kite Beach, is committed to helping protect marine life. "It is important for us as a community to be vigilant about animals stranded on our shores and do everything we can to ensure their safety," she said.
She has previously participated in other animal rescues, always ensuring that these animals safely return to their natural habitats.
Why should we not remove parasites from turtle shells?
According to DTRP experts, removing crabs and barnacles from turtle shells can cause severe pain because these organisms are connected to nerve endings. Attempting to remove them can damage the turtle's skin and lead to secondary infections. Therefore, it is crucial to keep the turtle wrapped in a wet towel, providing it with a proper environment until rescue.
Summary
The work of the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project is essential in protecting sea turtles. Because of the cold months and stormy weather, more turtles are washing ashore, requiring community cooperation. If you find a turtle on the shore, immediately call the DTRP and follow the steps suggested by the experts.
Everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the protection of Dubai's marine life with a little attention.