Malta’s 2025 turtle nesting season continues to break records, with a fifth loggerhead turtle nest confirmed early this morning at Ramla l-Ħamra beach in Gozo. This marks the third nest laid this summer by the same turtle, Johanna, who has become a familiar and celebrated visitor to the protected coastline.
Nature Trust Malta volunteers spotted the turtle at around 2am during routine patrols near the previous nesting sites. ERA and Nature Trust officials immediately responded to the scene, confirming the presence of the new nest and securing the site under an emergency conservation order.
This latest development comes just days after the release of two rehabilitated turtles at Golden Bay, highlighting the critical role of both conservation and rehabilitation in protecting Malta’s marine biodiversity. Turtle Johanna had previously laid two nests at Ramla, while earlier nests this season were recorded at Ġnejna Bay and Għadira.
Johanna was positively identified through a microchip check, confirming her third nest this season – a promising sign of Malta’s growing importance as a nesting site for the globally endangered loggerhead turtle.
The public is reminded not to disturb nesting turtles or their nests, and to report any sightings to ERA at 2292 3500 or Nature Trust Malta at 9999 9505. Those interested in volunteering during the season can contact turtle.ramla@gmail.com.
Each nest strengthens the case for stronger marine protection policies as Malta becomes a critical refuge for this vulnerable species.
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