All set to welcome Turtle Season in Tulum

The sea turtle nesting season is approaching. Therefore, the Civic Association “Flora, Fauna and Culture of Mexico”, together with the Municipal Department of Environment, is already preparing the turtle camps that will be open from April 15.

This was announced by Leonel Gómez Nieto, director of the Program for the Protection of Sea Turtles of this civic association. He indicated that the first turtles will arrive in the middle of next month.

The specialist pointed out that the technicians will be responsible for training volunteers this season, which he hopes will be about 80 people in Tulum.

“This year we will have 15 technicians and between 60 and 80 volunteers to assist in the spawning of sea turtles this season, which will last between seven and eight months,” said the specialist.

Sea turtles are fascinating creatures with a unique set of characteristics. They are cold-blooded reptiles and have been around for over 100 million years. They have a streamlined body with flippers that enable them to swim efficiently in the water. Sea turtles can hold their breath for extended periods, with some species capable of staying underwater for up to five hours.

Behavior of Sea Turtles

Sea turtles are solitary animals that migrate across the oceans to mate and lay eggs. Females come ashore to lay their eggs on the same beach where they were born, a behavior known as natal homing. This behavior is unique to sea turtles and is still not fully understood by scientists. Once the eggs hatch, the hatchlings crawl into the water and begin their journey to adulthood.

Conservation Efforts

Unfortunately, sea turtles face many threats, including habitat loss, pollution, fishing gear, and poaching. The good news is that there are many conservation efforts aimed at protecting sea turtles in Tulum and the Riviera Maya. Organizations such as Flora, Fauna y Cultura de México A.C. (FFCM) work tirelessly to protect sea turtle nests, educate locals and visitors about the importance of conservation, and promote sustainable tourism practices.

Sea Turtle Nesting Season

The sea turtle nesting season in Tulum and the Riviera Maya lasts from May to October, with peak season being June and July. During this time, visitors can witness one of the most incredible natural events on the planet – the hatching of sea turtle eggs. The turtles emerge from the sand and make their way to the ocean, guided by the moonlight. It is an unforgettable experience and one that should be witnessed by all.

Sea Turtle-Friendly Practices

Visitors can help protect sea turtles in Tulum and the Riviera Maya by practicing sea turtle-friendly tourism. This includes avoiding the use of artificial lights on the beach at night, not disturbing sea turtle nests, and avoiding the use of single-use plastics. By following these simple guidelines, visitors can help ensure that sea turtles continue to thrive in this beautiful region.

Sea turtles are a vital part of the ecosystem in Tulum and the Riviera Maya. Their beauty, grace, and unique characteristics have captured the hearts of many. By understanding the biology and behavior of sea turtles, supporting conservation efforts, and practicing sea turtle-friendly tourism, we can ensure that these magnificent creatures continue to thrive for generations to come.