A loggerhead turtle was rescued early this morning by the Nature Trust Wildlife Rescue team (NTM) following a call from the Marsaxlokk police station.

The young turtle was found injured as it was entangled in a piece of net used in construction, carrier bags, two ropes and a large tree branch. 

The saved turtle is currently receiving treatment.

NTM said marine debris and other waste that ended up in the sea was often the cause of such injures and at times death of these endangered turtles.

The organisation thanked PC994 for his help. 

It appealed to the public to dispose of litter correctly to ensure it does not end up in the sea, thus posing a danger to turtles.

It also called on people who saw turtles that were injured, in difficulty or dead, to call the Wildlife Rescue Team on 9999 9505.

No lines should be cut or pulled, it said, to prevent any further damage from being done. 

NTM also appealed for donations and support for the Turtle Rehabilitation Project. Donations can be made by bank transfer on bank accounts BOV 40023538289 or HSBC 039069000009.

They can also be made via SMS on 5061 6135 (€1.16), 5061 7597 (€2.33) or 5061 8196 (€4.66).