VIDEO: Guardia Civil find two loggerhead turtles trapped in fishing nets off Tenerife
The Guardia Civil has rescued two loggerhead turtles that were caught in drifting fishing nets less than one kilometre from the coast of Tenerife. Sadly, while one was successfully freed and released in good health, the other was already dead when discovered.
The incident occurred about half a mile from the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where officers on coastal patrol spotted a cluster of abandoned fishing nets covering an area of around 10 square metres. On approaching, they found two turtles entangled: one showing clear signs of decomposition, and the other still alive but trapped.
The agents were able to carefully cut the live turtle free from the nets and release it immediately back into the sea.
Investigation Underway
The Guardia Civil contacted the Centro de Recuperación de Fauna Silvestre La Tahonilla, run by the Cabildo de Tenerife, who have taken custody of the dead turtle for examination. The nets themselves are now being held by the Guardia Civil as part of efforts to trace their owner.
Abandoned or drifting fishing gear poses a serious threat to marine life in the Canary Islands, with turtles, dolphins, whales, and seabirds among the species most at risk. Loggerhead turtles are a protected species, and Tenerife is an important habitat for them.
Authorities remind the public to report any sightings of marine animals in distress or abandoned fishing gear to emergency services or environmental authorities immediately.
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