South Pacific’s Largest Hawksbill Turtle Rookery Recovering
After 150 years of exploitation, the largest Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) Rookery shows significant signs of recovery. This local population, studied for 22 years to date, shows a 200% increase from when the study started. Collaborative conservation efforts must continue, but the success at Arnavon Community Marine Conservation Area is very encouraging for the long-term growth of the Hawksbill population.
Meanwhile, on the beaches of Chennai, India, the number of nesting Olive Ridley Sea Turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) has grown consistently since 2011 to a total nearly 175% higher than the 2011 season. There has been downside, too, as numbers of dead turtles washed up on the beaches has grown, as well. These turtles were also on their way to nest, and support is growing for better enforcement of the marine fishing regulations.
Turtle News From Around the World
Biology
Therapy used on turtles as an alternative to antibiotics may also work on humans.
Education
Canadian library holds event to learn about Leatherbacks.
Conservation
Chesapeake Christian School Students help local turtle population thrive.
60 juvenile Chelonia mydas (Green Sea Turtle) released on Phuket Beach.
7 sea turtles released back into the sea after a stint in rehabilitation at Penghu Sea Turtle Rehab Center.
Five critically endangered juvenile Hawksbill Sea Turtles will be released into the Arabian Gulf with satellite trackers after a 90-day rehabilitation period. They will be able to be monitored on Facebook after their release.
Fiji resorts set their signs on sustainable tourism practices and conserving the local marine environment.
Public asked to keep a watchful eye for standed sea turtles on Western Cape (South Africa) beaches.
Did You Know…
Eretmochelys imbricata (Hawksbill Sea Turtle) is critically endangered. They were highly sought for their beautiful carapaces, which are the source of “tortoiseshell” for jewelry and other ornaments. Eastern Asia still provides an eager market for tortoiseshell, despite protection under national and international laws.
Question or Concerns? Want to submit an article to get posted? Email us at [email protected].
Photo by Bridget Besaw.
