Sea turtles are amazing and beautiful creatures, but few people realise just how big they can get. Some of them grow to three metres long and they can weigh as much as 750 kilograms, and many of them have stunningly beautiful shells. However, this is where the problem lies for many species of turtle - they are poached for their shells to the point where they are now close to extinction. This, alongside the damage that is often caused to their natural habitats, is why sea turtle conservation is so important.
We offer three opportunities for you to volunteer on a turtle project to help protect them and conserve their nesting grounds. These projects are located in: Costa Rica, the Perhentian Islands and the Kosgoda region of Sri Lanka. They are all beautiful locations to visit, and you will be able to observe as many as five different species of turtle. Whilst at these projects you will get the chance to take part in a number of conservation activities that includes taking part in a hatchery programme, burying eggs into the sand of the local beaches, and occasionally even heading out on a night patrol to prevent poachers from stealing turtle eggs. If you would like the chance to aid sea turtle conservation efforts then why not become our next volunteer!
The numbers of sea turtles found in the wild varies greatly by species. The most endangered species of sea turtle is the Kemp Ridley, as its numbers have suffered a lot since the 1940’s when 42,000 were filmed nesting in one location. Researchers have found it difficult to get an accurate figure for the number of sea turtles that are remaining in the wild due to their elusive nature, and the sheer number of hatchlings who never make it to adulthood.
What we do know though is that all 7 species need concerted conservation efforts if they are to survive.
Sea turtles are relatively defenceless to human actions,
despite what their shell would have you believe. Some of the things most
affecting their numbers include:
Do More
Take part in the Great Turtle Project in Sri Lanka, and have a hand in the conservation of the country's beautiful sea turtles
Play your part in the conservation of turtles and other wildlife in Costa Rica.
T: +44(0) 208 885 4987
