Corfu, April 16 – A concerning number of 17 dead sea turtles have been found on the coasts of North Corfu between January 1 and April 13, 2026. This alarming phenomenon, which unfortunately is quite common today, has a direct impact on the environment.
Vice Mayor Highlights Disturbing Findings
Ms. Spyridoula Kokkali, Vice Mayor of Circular Economy for the Municipality of North Corfu, announced these findings via social media. The incidents were recorded at various locations, indicating a widespread issue across the region.
Specific Locations of Incidents:
- Syki (January 18, 2026)
- Arillas (January 27, 2026)
- Almyros (February 20, 2026)
- Almyros (February 21, 2026)
- Agios Ioannis Karousadon (February 22, 2026)
- Astrakeri (February 24, 2026)
- Apraos (March 9, 2026)
- Acharavi (March 11, 2026)
- Acharavi (March 12, 2026)
- Acharavi (March 18, 2026)
- Astrakeri (March 30, 2026)
- Astrakeri (March 30, 2026)
- Sidari (March 31, 2026)
- Agios Stefanos Avlioton (April 5, 2026)
- Almyros (April 9, 2026)
- Acharavi (April 10, 2026)
- Almyros (April 13, 2026)
The observations reveal that a significant number of the deceased animals bore head injuries. In several cases, fishing gear, such as hooks, was found present or ingested, and some turtles were entangled in nets. These findings clearly illustrate the severity of the problem.
Mature Turtles Affected, Human Impact Suspected
It is particularly concerning that most of the recorded individuals appear to be mature sea turtles. This fact exacerbates the seriousness of the phenomenon, as it affects individuals that actively contribute to the reproduction of the species and, consequently, to the maintenance of its population.
These data strongly indicate anthropogenic impact and highlight a particularly alarming environmental issue for the coastal and marine area of the Municipality. The Municipality of North Corfu is in continuous communication with ARCHELON, the specialized scientific body for the protection and study of sea turtles in Greece, and is closely monitoring the evolution of the phenomenon, with the aim of recording and evaluating it.
Sea Turtles: A Protected Species
Sea turtles are a protected species and a key link in marine biodiversity, playing a crucial role in maintaining the balance of ecosystems. The increased frequency of dead animals in a short period, as well as the nature of the findings, make it necessary to increase attention and responsibility regarding human activities in the marine zone.
This phenomenon cannot be considered isolated and requires immediate attention and action, within the framework of protecting the natural environment and maintaining the ecological balance of the area.
