Tracked sea turtle Tuba remains near Turkish coasts, forgoes long migration

A loggerhead sea turtle named "Tuba," tracked by satellite since 2019, has remained in waters off Türkiye's Aegean and eastern Mediterranean coasts during her second monitored migration, deviating from her earlier long-distance route to the Adriatic Sea. The female turtle, estimated to be 25-30 years old, was re-equipped with a transmitter in August by the Sea Turtle Research, Rescue and Rehabilitation Center (DEKAMER) in Muğla.

Tracking Data and Behavioral Shift

Biologist Yakup Kaska from Pamukkale University reported that since her release on August 9, Tuba has traveled about 10,000 kilometers, largely circling areas near Rhodes, Bodrum, and south of Karaada, staying predominantly within Turkish territorial waters. This contrasts with her 2019 migration, where she covered roughly 25,000 kilometers, reaching Greece, Malta, Italy, and several Adriatic countries before returning to nest. Researchers are monitoring whether she will nest again or eventually embark on another distant migration.

Conservation Context in Türkiye

Türkiye hosts significant nesting populations of loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta) on its Mediterranean and Aegean coasts, with key nesting sites including Iztuzu (Turtle Beach) in Muğla and Belek Beach in Antalya. The species is classified as vulnerable globally, though some Mediterranean subpopulations are considered stable due to conservation efforts. Organizations like DEKAMER, supported by academic and government bodies, conduct vital tracking and protection work. While nest numbers have increased in recent years thanks to beach protections and public awareness, threats such as bycatch, pollution, and climate change persist, underscoring the need for continued monitoring.