With the start of the summer vacation season, the conservation community is warning of increased risks to sea turtles during their nesting period, which coincides with the peak tourist influx on Zihuatanejo’s beaches. However, authorities consider the risks to be minimal.
Leatherback, Olive Ridley, and Hawksbill turtles arrive in Ixtapa and Zihuatanejo, but the Olive Ridley’s presence increases during the vacation season because it coincides with their nesting season. Therefore, authorities are committed to informing the public about measures to take if they see a turtle nesting, and to beach guards.
Among the main factors endangering this endangered species are the massive presence of tourists in nesting areas, vehicle traffic on the sand, garbage pollution, artificial lighting, and, in some cases, poaching and nest poaching.
Lights from nearby hotels and homes disorient baby turtles, making it difficult for them to reach the sea and reducing their survival. Furthermore, stray dogs dig up nests or attack hatchlings, a common problem at Playa Blanca, according to the Ayotlcalli camp.
Camps in Zihuatanejo, Troncones, and Barra de Potosí continue patrolling, relocating nests, and releasing hatchlings, and invite citizens to participate responsibly.
Citizen participation, community surveillance, and increased awareness of the ecological importance of these species are key to ensuring their preservation during the holiday season.
Source: meganoticias
