Leatherback Turtle Washes Ashore in Spain: Cause of Death Unknown

Leatherback Turtle Washes Ashore in Cantabria, Spain – A Rare and Tragic Find

A deceased leatherback turtle, the largest sea turtle species in the world, was discovered on the beach of Piélagos in Cantabria, Spain, after drifting for approximately six weeks. The finding, reported on March 17, 2026, highlights the vulnerability of these magnificent creatures and raises concerns about the threats they face in the Atlantic Ocean. The discovery underscores the increasing frequency of these types of strandings along the northern Spanish coast.

What We Know About the Discovery

The turtle was first spotted by a volunteer from Centinelas Cantabria, a local wildlife monitoring group. Scientists from Revarca, the Cantabrian Network of Stranding and Rescue of Marine Fauna, were dispatched to the scene. Unfortunately, the body was already in an advanced state of decomposition, limiting the amount of information scientists could gather. The cause of death remains undetermined, but initial suspicions point to either plastic ingestion or a collision with a vessel.

Leatherback Turtles: A Species in Profile

Leatherback turtles (Dermochelys coriacea) are unique among sea turtles due to their lack of a hard, bony shell. Instead, they possess a carapace composed of a leathery, oily skin supported by thousands of small bones. This distinctive feature gives them their common name, “leatherback.” As Diego de Vallejo, Revarca’s communications officer, explained, they are often referred to as “the turtle with a leather back” by English speakers. These turtles can live up to 100 years, reach lengths of two meters (approximately 6.5 feet), and weigh up to 600 kilograms (over 1,300 pounds) – comparable to the weight of a polar bear or the size of a small car. They typically inhabit open ocean waters, venturing closer to shore to breed and feed.

Confirmed vs. Unclear: Key Details of the Cantabrian Stranding

Confirmed:

A deceased leatherback turtle was found on the beach of Piélagos, Cantabria.
The turtle had been drifting for approximately six weeks prior to being discovered.
Scientists from Revarca responded to the stranding.
The turtle’s body was in an advanced state of decomposition.
The species typically breeds off the west coast of Africa.

Unclear:

The exact origin and intended destination of the turtle remain unknown.
The precise cause of death has not been determined.
The specific circumstances surrounding the turtle’s six-week drift are unknown.

The Potential Threats: Plastic and Vessel Strikes

Revarca scientists believe that plastic ingestion or a collision with a boat are the most likely causes of death. Leatherback turtles are known to feed primarily on jellyfish, and they may inadvertently consume plastic debris that resembles their prey. This can lead to internal blockages and starvation. Their large size and gradual movements make them vulnerable to strikes from ships. The report did not specify whether any plastic was found within the turtle’s digestive system, or if there was any evidence of trauma consistent with a vessel strike.

A Changing Climate and Increasing Strandings

This incident is not isolated. Recent months have seen an increase in turtle strandings along the coasts of Cantabria, Asturias, and the Basque Country. Experts suggest that climate change may be playing a role, potentially disrupting the turtles’ migratory patterns or making them more susceptible to illness. While strandings of loggerhead turtles are relatively common in the region, the discovery of a Kemp’s ridley turtle – the first such finding in Cantabria – was particularly noteworthy. The Red de Varamientos y Rescate de Fauna Marina de Cantabria (REVARCA) is currently conducting analyses to better understand the factors contributing to these strandings.

The Leatherback’s Range and Behavior

Leatherback turtles typically live approximately 17 kilometers (10.5 miles) offshore and can dive to depths of up to 1,000 meters (3,280 feet), although they are usually found at depths between 300 and 400 meters (984-1,312 feet). Despite their marine lifestyle, they are reptiles and must surface to breathe and bask in the sun to regulate their body temperature. Interestingly, local sailors have reported sightings of leatherback turtles near Cabo Machichaco, suggesting that these creatures occasionally venture closer to the Cantabrian coast. De Vallejo noted that sailors often view them favorably, as they consume jellyfish, which compete with fish for resources.

What Happens Next?

The Revarca team at the Wildlife Recovery Center of Cantabria is currently conducting a necropsy and collecting biometric data from the deceased turtle. This information will be used to gain a better understanding of the circumstances surrounding its death and to contribute to broader conservation efforts. Further research is needed to determine the full extent of the threats facing leatherback turtles and to develop effective strategies to protect this endangered species. Veterinarians with Revarca are meticulously documenting the case.