According to reports from the Croatian portal “Dnevnik” holidaymakers on the Croatian Adriatic coast could face a new threat: attacks by loggerhead turtles.
This species, which is usually considered peaceful, is said to have injured swimmers on the beaches of the island of Ciovo and the port city of Split, according to Dnevnik. Among the injured is a woman who was bitten three times while swimming in a fenced-off area.
Tourist almost lost her leg
“Dnevnik” shows photos of bloody wounds on upper and lower legs and thumbs. The victim was vaccinated and accompanied by her husband for medical treatment. She almost lost her leg, according to Goran Borovac, the photographer of the pictures.
Borovac criticizes the authorities’ response, which sent two veterinarians who were overwhelmed by the situation. He laments that no action has been taken despite the ministry’s order to close the beach.
Turtle may have been confused
According to Prof. Alen Soldo from the University of Split’s Department of Marine Studies, the turtle’s unusual behavior could be due to injury or disorientation. According to Dnevnik, many loggerhead turtles have been sighted in the area recently. Despite the attacks, people continue to go into the water and are difficult to convince that it could be dangerous.
Locals know the turtle problem – tourists mostly don’t
Another victim reports to “Dnevnik” about a bite on the thigh. Vinko Tomas, a beach bar worker in Slatine on Ciovo island, tells of a bite victim who was diving. Foreign tourists are often unaware of the problem, while locals talk about it.
Expert says turtles “sense” people’s lack of caution
A report by the Croatian portal “Slobodna Dalmacija” refers to a video broadcast on television in which bathers drag a sea turtle into the shallow water and torment it.
It is speculated that the turtles may come close to humans in search of food. The report also comments on Dr. Zlatko Golob, who believes the turtles may be disturbed by lack of food, too much noise and a decrease in their habitat.
He points out that humans are behaving disastrously towards the sea and the environment, and that the turtles could sense it.