A CONSERVATION SUCCESS STORY
December 9, 2023
The turtle nesting beach at Tortugas de Isla Damas
Prior to the 2023 season, despite their protected status, approximately 75% of turtle nests, on the beach at Isla Damas, were destroyed. Turtle hatchlings already had the odds stacked against them with 1 in 1,000 reaching adulthood. When 75% of the eggs are decimated, the chance of a turtle egg hatching and surviving to adulthood is drastically reduced to 1 in 10,000. This is devastating for endangered sea turtles.
Prior to the 2023 season, only about 10,000 eggs were rescued, with the poachers stealing 30,000-35,000. Thanks to our engagement with poachers, we have been able to change the tide. These are the current numbers for 2023:
- 35,127 eggs rescued
- -25,980 baby turtles released
- -7,498 eggs still in the hatchery waiting to hatch
- -8.000 eggs stolen by poachers still not working with us
Next year we want to save all the eggs. You can help us make that happen!