Sea Turtle Killed by Feral Dogs Amid Mayor’s Inaction

Telchac Puerto, Yucatán — A sea turtle recently died after being attacked by feral dogs on the coast of Telchac Puerto, Yucatán, according to residents of the coastal community. The incident was documented by a local woman, who also cares for "Manchas," a dog known for accompanying and protecting nesting turtles, as reported by biologist Lucía Hernández.

A Recurring Threat to Wildlife

The attack is not an isolated incident but part of a long-standing issue that has worsened due to the lack of effective municipal measures. During nesting season, sea turtles become particularly vulnerable as they come ashore to lay eggs.

Hernández explained that the turtle’s death is a direct consequence of the absence of a wildlife protection program. She criticized Telchac Puerto Mayor Alfonso Núñez for failing to implement any real strategy to safeguard turtles or control the feral dog population.

Lack of Municipal Protection Programs

The municipality has no active monitoring, surveillance, or nest protection initiatives, despite the area being a known nesting site. There are no community patrols organized by local authorities, no beach signage, and no emergency protocols for attacks. This neglect leaves turtles defenseless during a critical phase of their life cycle.

Broader Animal Welfare Failures

The problem extends beyond environmental damage, reflecting a broader failure in public policy regarding animal welfare. Feral dogs, often abandoned and without access to food, shelter, or medical care, are a symptom of inadequate municipal resources for sterilization and population control.

Hernández emphasized that ethical canine population management—through sterilization, monitoring, and intervention—is necessary to prevent further attacks. Ignoring the issue, she warned, condemns both abandoned domestic animals and endangered wildlife.

The incident underscores the urgent need for municipal action to protect both wildlife and stray animals in Telchac Puerto.