Investigation launched as vulnerable animals wash up dead

• At least 32 turtles, including 25 vulnerable green turtles, have been found washed up dead on shores across the Port Stephens Council area in New South Wales, Australia.
• Some of the deceased turtles exhibited unusual symptoms, such as bleeding around the eyes, which conservationists describe as very worrying.
• Multiple agencies, including New South Wales's National Parks and Wildlife Services and Taronga Zoo, are conducting a thorough investigation, collecting samples for testing, with autopsy data expected in several weeks.
• Sea Shelter, a marine rescue group, recorded 25 green turtle deaths in the past month in Port Stephens, with one founder noting an increase in deaths after recent flooding in the area.
• The public has been urged to report any sick or injured sea turtles to the National Parks and Wildlife Services or Irukandji Shark and Ray Encounters.

IN FULL

Experts alarmed as dead turtles with bleeding eyes wash up on Australia’s beaches: ‘It’s very, very worrying’