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Rescued Maldivian Black Turtle from Malé Streets Relocated to Kaashidhoo

07 November 2023, MVT 13:27
A Maldivian Black Turtle, rescued from streets of Male'.-- Photo: EPA
07 November 2023, MVT 13:27

A Maldivian Black Turtle, discovered on the streets of Malé City, has been safely transported to Kaafu Kaashidhoo and released.

The Maldivian Black Turtle, a species protected in the country since 1993 due to the threat of extinction, has also been included in the country's red list.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reported in an announcement on X that the turtle was sighted on the streets of Malé earlier this week. The agency expressed gratitude to the individuals who found the turtle, provided protection, and promptly reported the discovery to the EPA.

Container used in the transport of the turtle to Kaashidhoo.-- Photo: EPA

Reportedly, the turtle was found along the road leading to the Henveiru Artificial Beach area.

The EPA has taken responsibility for rescuing the turtle and facilitating its release into the wetlands of Kaashidhoo.

The EPA said, the speed launch "Velaa Express" and the Kaashidhoo Council Office played a crucial role in transporting the turtle to Kaashidhoo.

The EPA has also urged the public to promptly inform the agency if they have a turtle in their possession and to report any similar turtle findings.

Kaashidhoo's wetlands are renowned as the primary location in the Maldives to observe the Maldivian Black Turtle, a species that is increasingly rare in the country. In 2021, the government had initiated protective measures for Kaashidhoo's wetlands.

This area, which is also inhabited by a significant number of koels, boasts an abundant supply of the Maldivian Black Turtle's primary food sources, including various screw pine species, mangrove apples, and grasslands.

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