A must-see attraction for tourists!
Summer in Marina di Modica begins with extraordinary news: WWF volunteers have discovered the first Caretta Caretta turtle nest of 2024 on the local beach! This exceptional event is not only a positive sign for the marine ecosystem, but also represents a unique attraction for tourists looking for unforgettable experiences.
Discover the natural beauty of Marina di Modica
Maria Monisteri, mayor of Modica, said, “Our sea and beaches, which have been awarded Blue Flag status, once again become the ideal nesting site for Caretta Caretta turtles. This nest is a hymn to life and marks the beginning of summer in a very special way. We invite everyone to come and discover the beauty of a place that nature itself has chosen as home.”
Unique experiences for tourists in Marina di Modica
The discovery was possible thanks to the constant monitoring of the beaches by WWF volunteers during the spawning season, which runs from May to September. “The presence of the turtles confirms the perfect synchrony of our ecosystem,” Monisteri added. “The composition of the beach greatly influences the reproductive success of Caretta caretta sea turtles.”
A natural attraction in Marina di Modica
Samuele Cannizzaro, Councillor for Animal Protection and Defense, stressed the importance of this event for the European Union’s ‘Life Turtlenest’ project, which has recognized Modica as a “turtle-friendly municipality.” “This extraordinary moment of nature is a celebration and a great attraction for tourists,” Cannizzaro said. “We thank the WWF volunteers, especially Piero Lancetta and biologist Oriana Prato, as well as the Civil Defense for their efforts.”
The Caretta Caretta Turtle
The loggerhead turtle Caretta caretta, also known as the common turtle, is a widespread marine species characterized by a reddish-brown carapace and sizes that can reach 90 cm in length and 135 kg in weight. It lives in the temperate and tropical waters of the major oceans and the Mediterranean Sea, feeding on marine invertebrates and algae.
These turtles return to their natal beaches every 2 to 4 years to lay eggs, with each brood potentially containing about 100 eggs. Despite their exceptional navigational ability, they are considered vulnerable due to habitat loss, bycatch and marine pollution.
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Fascinating curiosities include their navigational ability; they have an incredible sense of direction and can travel thousands of miles to return exactly to the beach where they were born to spawn. This phenomenon, called “natal homing,” is still being studied, but they are thought to use the Earth’s magnetic field to orient themselves. Natural camouflage of hatchlings: as soon as they are born, they have a dark carapace that helps them blend in with the sand and seaweed, protecting them from predators. These turtles are excellent divers. They can dive up to 200 meters deep and stay underwater for more than 30 minutes, which is impressive since they have to come up to breathe air. Long-lived Travelers: they can live up to 50 years or more, spending most of their lives in the open sea.
Visit Marina di Modica: a paradise for nature lovers
To ensure the safety of the eggs, WWF experts have moved the nest to a protected location away from the risk of storm surges. Beach monitoring continues and anyone spotting traces of possible nesting is encouraged to contact WWF workers.
Live an unforgettable experience in Marina di Modica
This discovery is one more reason to choose Marina di Modica as your vacation destination. Imagine walking on pristine beaches where nature has decided to nest, an ideal place for Caretta Caretta turtles.
Bring your family, take unforgettable photos and participate in an experience that combines relaxation and love of nature. Don’t miss the opportunity to see such a rare and precious spectacle up close. Marina di Modica is waiting to offer you a vacation of natural beauty and discovery!
Contact WWF for more information
For more information and to report nesting sightings, contact WWF staff. Join us in protecting this extraordinary natural heritage!
Marina di Modica is ready to welcome you for an unforgettable summer of nature and discovery. Plan your visit now and have a unique experience with Caretta Caretta turtles!
