Marine biologists are attributing a surge in sea turtle attacks on swimmers at Marathi Beach in Hania, Crete, to tourists and fishermen feeding the animals, which alters their natural behavior.

Dr Katerina Manimanaki at Hania Hospital reported treating numerous victims over the past two years. “Turtles don’t have teeth, but very strong jaws that cause large bruises by crushing muscles,” she said.

Local resident K.B. described being bitten on her buttocks and thigh while exiting the water. “The pain was so intense I nearly fainted,” she said, requiring hospitalization for infected wounds.

Wildlife expert Dimitris Fytilis from Archelon conservation group explained that feeding teaches turtles to associate humans with food. “They begin treating swimmers as competitors for food and try to drive them away by biting,” he said.

Similar incidents have been reported in other Greek coastal areas. Experts advise swimmers to wave arms and legs underwater to frighten approaching turtles.