RAO Anzoátegui monitors nesting activity

Sea turtles have been part of the existing fauna in the subtropical and tropical seas of the planet for millions of years and one of the most striking aspects of their life cycle is to return to the area where they were born. But this would not be remarkable if we did not take into account that they reach sexual maturity at around 25-30 years of age.

Sea turtles have been part of the existing fauna in the subtropical and tropical seas of the planet for millions of years and one of the most striking aspects of their life cycle is to return to the area where they were born. But this would not be remarkable if we did not take into account that they reach sexual maturity at around 25-30 years of age.

Females lay their eggs on beaches within the area where they emerged many years ago, as palm-sized turtles and without the presence and care of their mothers. It is not yet known exactly how they manage to return and know where to lay their eggs.

The Anzoátegui Timely Warning Network (RAO Anzoátegui) has been working for almost two years collecting data on these events in the state and in the last monitoring carried out during the month of April, reports the presence of nests of species such as the Green, Hawksbill and Cardón turtles.

Fundación La Tortuga reminds the community in general that we must protect these animals since all species are in danger of extinction and recommends:

- not to exceed the speed limit (10 knots) inside Mochima National Park.

-Take care of the coral formations and do not anchor in them because they are a refuge for turtles and growing fish.

-If baby turtles hatch on the beach and it is daytime, count them and place them gently in a large sandy cellar or punch bowl and cover them so that the sun does not shine on them until late afternoon. At that time they are less vulnerable to attack by natural predators. Place them back near the water and let them go about their natural cycle. If photos are taken, they should be taken without flash.

-They are not pets and should not be kept in captivity. It is punishable by Venezuelan law.