THE BODY of a rare sea turtle has been found on a beach near Porthmadog.

Sadly, the turtle was found dead on the beach and the RSPCA was contacted.

RSPCA inspector Mike Pugh said: “I believe it to be a green turtle, which is rarely seen in these waters and are usually found in the warmer waters of the tropics.

“They feed on algae and seagrass and this one was small (young) as they would grow possibly four times larger.

“We don’t know the cause of death, but the recent storms may have been something to do with its demise.

“I have contacted the UK Cetaceans Investigation Programme (CSIP) who will confirm it’s identity and hopefully cause of death, in due course.”

This is the second turtle to wash up on a Gwynedd beach in as many weeks.

Residents in Dyffryn Ardudwy were shocked to find the remains of a leatherback turtle in mid-November.

Experience is important for the safe handling of animals like sea turtles. If however, you come across a stranded turtle, whale, dolphin, porpoise or basking shark that has unfortunately died, please report it to the UK Cetaceans Investigation Programme (CSIP) on 0800 652 0333.