A giant Leatherback Sea Turtle washed up on Meia Praia in Lagos on Wednesday morning, heavily decomposed.
Leatherback Sea Turtles are the largest of all living turtles, primarily feeding on jellyfish throughout all tropical and subtropical oceans.
The last reported similar stranding case occurred in February 2013 on Carvalho beach in Lagoa, whilst a live specimen was released at Praia da Rocha in October 2013, having accidentally been caught in Figueira da Foz, Coimbra.
At the time of press, both Zoomarine and ICNF have been informed and it is hoped that a decision will be made as to where the carcass will be disposed.
All members of the public should be vigilant when walking along the coast and report any sightings to the relevant authorities.
By Charlie Frew/Asiatic Marine.
Photo: Barbara Yendall.
