Although the season comes to an end, the work continues for the tortuga team. Many nests hatching on the beaches means many nests to be cleaned in preparation for the 14th Annual Festival de la Tortuga Marina and the XVI Taller Regional, a 3-day workshop and educational seminar for the Tortugueros of Quintana Roo. The season does not end when the mommas stop coming up on the beaches. Cleaning nests finishes the data that is collected for the report of the season for the government. The open shells are counted: that tells us how many made it onto the beach. Eggs that didn’t hatch are also counted and checked to determine if possible the reason. This is a difficult job, especially when cleaning the nests of Blancas tortugas that dig a meter or more into the sand before they lay their eggs. So if you ever see one of the staff with their feet only coming out of the sand, you will know there is nest cleaning going on. Just a day in the life of a tortuguero!
A surprise was found on October 24th – what, a nesting turtle???? YES!!! A surprise for the tortuguera who discovered her. This may mean Christmas Eve babies!! How exciting for the team!
October is also a sad time when we have to say ADIOS to some of the team until next season. Thank you all for your hard work and endless hours to help protect the Tortugas Marinas on the beaches of Akumal.
The final nest count will be available soon. Below are the numbers from the 16 October official report. (A little inside info…the numbers will end well over 800). A great season!!!!!
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