Abu Dhabi: Stranded sea turtle found on beach?Here’s What You Should Do – News

Residents are also urged not to remove barnacles from the turtles

Sea turtles are likely to become stranded during winter, and residents who spot them on the beaches of the UAE capital can contact the Abu Dhabi government call center for assistance.

The Environment Agency of Abu Dhabi (EAD) said in a statement that during the cold season, sea turtles tend to grow barnacles, which hinder their movements.

“Turtles experience temperature shocks during winter, which make them tame. During this time, barnacles often stick to the turtles, limiting their movement,” EAD said.

The agency has urged the public not to remove barnacles — a group of crustaceans — from sea turtles.

“If you spot a stranded sea turtle on the beach, follow precautionary measures and contact the Abu Dhabi Government Call Center on 800 555,” the EAD added.

To date, the agency has rescued hundreds of sea turtles in partnership with the Abu Dhabi National Aquarium.

The agency has been researching, monitoring and conserving sea turtles in Abu Dhabi since 1999 and has successfully maintained stable populations throughout the emirate’s territorial waters. Research has shown improvements in sea turtle populations and their stability in the emirate. Abu Dhabi’s waters are home to more than 5,000 sea turtles, including green sea turtles and hawksbill turtles.