Marine animal rescues along the Catalan coast have more than doubled this summer compared to last year, with conservation teams working tirelessly to save endangered species. The Generalitat and CRAM Foundation rescued 55 marine animals between July and September, significantly exceeding the 19 animals assisted during the same period in 2024. Furthermore, the total number of rescues throughout 2025 has reached 246 specimens, highlighting growing conservation challenges.
Marine Animal Rescues Focus on Endangered Turtles
Sea turtles represented the majority of cases requiring intervention this summer. Conservation teams attended to 14 live turtles and discovered 16 deceased specimens along various coastal points. Consequently, veterinary teams have been working extensively with injured animals, many suffering from pollution-related injuries.
Seven turtles required admission to CRAM facilities after becoming entangled in illegal fishing nets. These incidents caused severe limb injuries, with four animals needing surgical amputation procedures. Nevertheless, all seven turtles remain in care with what officials describe as a favourable prognosis for eventual reintroduction to their natural habitat.
One notable rescue involved a young loggerhead turtle found entangled in mooring ropes at Colera harbour in Girona. The animal sustained injuries to its shell, fins and head before receiving pharmacological treatment and sample collection. Subsequently, the Diving Center Colera transported the turtle to open waters for monitored release.
Cetacean Encounters Increase Along Coastline
Meanwhile, cetacean strandings have also shown a concerning increase this summer. Teams assisted 13 whales and dolphins between July and September, representing seven more cases than the same period last year. Six animals arrived alive after beaching on Catalan shores, including five striped dolphins and one Risso’s dolphin.
Department officials note that stranded marine mammals typically arrive in poor condition, having spent weeks without pod protection or adequate feeding opportunities. Therefore, providing a calm, controlled environment with appropriate veterinary care becomes essential for ensuring their wellbeing and potential recovery.
Additionally, conservationists report growing numbers of rays and mantas along the Catalan coastline. This summer recorded 76 sightings of these species, though the CRAM Foundation only needed to intervene with 11 individual animals. While warm-season appearances remain typical, the increased frequency has prompted authorities to establish a specialised working group for coordinated response.
The Department of Territory, Housing and Ecological Transition urges public cooperation when encountering distressed marine life. Citizens should immediately call emergency services on 112 if they discover injured or deceased marine animals. Moreover, officials emphasise that beached animals should not be handled or returned to sea without professional assessment, while turtles caught in nets require specialist removal rather than public intervention.
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