What is happening with the dead turtles constantly found in Naxos

May marks the beginning of the nesting season for sea turtles. Instead of celebrating this, we are faced with troubling news. Recently, the “Naxos Wildlife Protection” association discovered a dead sea turtle on Plaka Beach in Naxos. The signs of trauma suggested that the injuries were inflicted by a cutting instrument rather than a natural cause. An autopsy revealed that the turtle was healthy prior to its death, as food remains were found in its esophagus.

We reached out to Mr. Giannis Orfanos, the president of the association, for insight into the situation of sea turtles in Naxos.

According to him, this year has seen an increase in dead turtle cases, most of which show signs of human-inflicted injuries, as confirmed by autopsy results. However, determining when or where the turtles were harmed—whether near Naxos or around adjacent islands like Paros and Ios—remains uncertain. The association, established in 2014 by local residents, focuses on the protection of sea turtles.

Although sea turtles navigate the Cyclades’ waters, they frequently become entangled in fishing nets; this contact typically isn’t life-threatening. Many turtles are released back into the sea, but sadly, some suffer intentional harm—often to the head or neck—resulting in fatal injuries.

Community members suspect who may be responsible for these actions, but formal complaints require catching someone in the act. Lacking investigative authority, they can still raise awareness about the issue. However, if news spreads that turtles are being killed in Naxos, it could deter tourists, negatively impacting local businesses and those involved in such crimes.

The responsibility for conducting investigations lies solely with local authorities and the Prosecutor’s Office, including examining illegal boat operations or unlawful net placement.

The association has faced both direct and indirect threats for its public disclosures, but it strongly believes in the necessity of speaking out against this unacceptable behavior.

Learn About the Naxos Wildlife Protection Association

The association has created the Network for the Protection of the Sea Turtle in the Cyclades, with support from ARCHELON (Sea Turtle Protection Society) and the Cyclades Preservation Fund (CPF). It holds informational sessions with local authorities, businesses, and residents to educate them about sea turtles, rescue protocols, and the correct handling of sick or injured turtles. The facility can accommodate up to three turtles for hospitalization, and if surgical intervention is required, they are transferred to ARCHELON’s Rescue Center.

If you encounter a dead sea turtle in Naxos, please contact 6976797070 or ARCHELON at 6941511511.