+

July 16, 2015

Little turtles on the way to the sea!


One of the cutest creatures you can meet along the coasts of Tanzania is the endangered green turtle. 

Not everybody know, but there are seven species of marine turtles and two of them nest in this area.  This is the reason why it will be probable for you to assist to hatch, especially if you spend some days nearby a beach area.


Sea turtles in Tanzania are under threat as a result of centuries of human exploitation for food, oil, leather and ornaments, as well as mortality associated with incidental capture in the fishing industry, marine and land-based pollution and degradation of feeding habitats. Unregulated coastal development poses a significant threat to nesting beaches.

Sea turtle ecotourism in Tanzania is being proudly led by coastal communities. Community Conservation Officers monitor the nest during its 55 day incubation period and protect it from potential predators including mongoose and monitor lizards. When it is ready for hatching, community Turtle Tour Guides lead you to the nest while telling you all the amazing sea turtle facts that you never knew.

We support Sea Sense, a Non Government Organisation (NGO) that works closely with coastal communities in Tanzania to conserve and protect endangered marine species including sea turtles, dugongs, whales, dolphins and whale sharks - and it’s possible for us to arrange, when possible, a trip to see turtles hatchling.

If you are in Dar es Salaam it’s so easy. Sea turtle nests are locted on beaches just 30km south of the city! For more info visit www.seasense.org.

No comments: