Vandals Set Barbecue Fire on Turtle Nest in Iskele: Hatchlings Perish

Unknown vandals in Northern Cyprus have tragically killed hatchling sea turtles by lighting a barbecue fire directly on their nest.

The alarming incident was brought to light by environmental activist Tuğba Yılmaz on social media. According to the animal rights advocate, the incident occurred on a beach in Iskele during the celebration of Kurban Bayram. During the festive days, many city residents flocked to beaches and other natural leisure spots, including for barbecue gatherings.

One such instance led to the deaths of the turtle hatchlings. Unknown individuals ignited a fire directly on the nest containing the hatchlings. Furthermore, not all beach goers took care to clean up after themselves at the picnic site.

As a result, the holiday contributed to beach littering and the destruction of turtle nest enclosures.

“There was a barbecue on this turtle nest, and all our hatchlings perished! I urge sensible people to pay attention to this issue and report such incidents when they witness them,” wrote the ecoactivist.

Read also: Where to find turtles in Northern Cyprus?