A large loggerhead sea turtle is suspected of biting three people, including a child, at Kaštel Lukšić beach near Split, Croatia, in a rare series of incidents that prompted medical treatment and a police investigation.
According to Croatian media, a similar incident occurred two days earlier at Slatine on the island of Čiovo, where a 13-year-old boy was reportedly bitten by a sea turtle.
The victims suffered bites to different parts of their bodies, including the hand, back and buttocks. One person was referred for a surgical examination, although doctors said all injuries were classified as minor.
Police confirmed three reported cases and searched the area by land and sea but were unable to locate the animal or determine the exact circumstances of the incidents.
Doctors warned that bites from loggerhead sea turtles should not be taken lightly. Although they have no teeth, the protected marine reptiles possess powerful beak-like jaws capable of crushing shells and crustaceans, making their bites capable of causing deep cuts, bruising, tissue damage and infection.
Marine experts say loggerhead turtles generally avoid humans and such attacks are extremely rare. They can become aggressive if they feel threatened, are approached too closely, are touched or fed, or if their path is blocked.
Authorities are advising beachgoers not to approach, touch or feed sea turtles if they encounter them in the water. Anyone bitten should seek immediate medical attention.