©Giorgia Doglioni via Unsplash
A carefree swim in the Adriatic Sea ended with an unexpected bite for three tourists. A hungry sea turtle seemed to have its sights set on a tasty piece of swimmer off the Croatian coast.
In Kaštela Bay off the Croatian coast, three swimmers were bitten by a hawksbill sea turtle. This species, part of the sea turtle family, can grow to nearly a meter in length. The unusual incident resulted in one victim suffering a broken finger and a deep open wound. Emergency services emphasize that while such a turtle bite is rare, it is by no means harmless and always requires medical attention.
Bitten in the water
The incident took place on a beach in Kaštel Lukšić, where two adults and a child sought help after being bitten in the water. Antonija Žanić of the Kaštela emergency medical service told Zadarski that two victims had superficial injuries, while the third sustained a fractured finger bone and a deeper open wound.
Turtle may have simply been searching for food
According to biologists, the turtle was likely not attacking out of aggression but may have been searching for food at the water’s surface. Biologist Karin Spiech explained to Gorenjska Info that loggerhead sea turtles, as this species is officially known, typically feed on the seafloor—on shellfish, crabs, and other invertebrates—and sometimes on jellyfish as well. This behavior is therefore not typical for the species. Spiech also warned against pulling away from the animal if bitten. Turtles do not have teeth but do have a powerful beak and strong jaws, so trying to pull away may actually worsen the grip. Her advice is clear: remain as calm as possible and seek medical attention immediately.
This appears to be an isolated incident, and many beachgoers did not seem particularly concerned. One visitor said there was no reason to panic, while another joked that perhaps the turtles had gone crazy too.
©Giorgia Doglioni via Unsplash