Tortoise of very rare species died due to heavy rains in Australia
(ORDO NEWS) — On the central beach of New South Wales, Australia, the authorities found a giant dead leatherback turtle (loot).
Experts believe that the animal may have died as a result of pollution associated with heavy rains and severe flooding in the state.
Leatherback turtles are the largest modern turtles. Their weight can reach 600 kg
The turtle washed up on the shore of Avoca Beach. According to estimates, the animal was 30 years old, and its body length exceeded 1.8 meters.
Leatherback turtles, which are the largest of the sea turtles, usually reach maturity around 20 years old and can live to at least 40 to 50 years old. This species is considered endangered.
A spokesman for the New South Wales National Parks and Wildlife Service said there is no confirmed cause of death for the animal yet.
“There are no obvious signs indicating how the turtle could have died, but experts are already analyzing the situation,” he said. “The Australian Museum will also take away the animal’s skull to help better understand the species.”
Scientists do not often notice leatherback turtles. Representatives of the species are rarely washed up on the coast, as they live at great depths. However, animals prey on jellyfish, and sometimes lay their eggs on the coast.
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