The project will also benefit other species, including seabirds, sharks, rays, and cetaceans, all similarly impacted by fishing threats. While protected nesting beaches are critical, loggerhead turtles are highly mobile, making broader conservation efforts in the open ocean equally vital. A new project seeks to address this by gathering population monitoring data for Malta, Italy, and Spain, which will help expand the NATURA 2000 network of protected areas and improve management measures.

NATURA 2000 sites will serve as key “Index Sites” for monitoring loggerhead populations and ensuring effective protection. The project will also benefit other species, including seabirds, sharks, rays, and cetaceans, all similarly impacted by fishing threats.

Through expanded monitoring and improved management at both local and international levels, this initiative aims to mitigate the risks posed by bycatch and ALDFG, enhancing the conservation of loggerhead turtles and other marine species across European waters.