Sea Turtles In North Cyprus
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Reference Education -> subcategory Environmental.
Sea Turtles in North Cyprus
For over a hundred million years, the serene waters of North Cyprus have been graced by the presence of green turtles (Chelonia mydas) and loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta). The green turtle, in particular, nests exclusively in Cyprus, southeast Turkey, and occasionally Israel.
Discovering Turtle Nesting in North Cyprus
From May to August, the enchanting beaches of North Cyprus, such as Alagadi Beach?"a designated special protected area?"witness these remarkable sea turtles coming ashore to nest. North Cyprus boasts some of the Mediterranean’s most vital turtle habitats, hosting two critically endangered species. Alarmingly, only about 10% of loggerheads and 30% of green turtles in the region nest here. With as few as 300-400 green and 2,000 loggerhead turtles surviving annually in the Mediterranean, safeguarding these creatures is crucial.
Life Journey of the Turtles
The life of a marine turtle begins on land, hatching from eggs buried in sand after 45-60 days of incubation. Once hatched, these tiny turtles instinctively make their way to the sea, embarking on a lifelong oceanic journey, only interrupted when a mature female returns to lay eggs. Astonishingly, only one in 2,000 hatchlings reaches adulthood. Upon reaching 25-30 years of age and growing to 1-2 meters in length, adult turtles return to nesting beaches to feed and reproduce.
During a nesting season, a female may lay 3-4 nests, each containing around 100 eggs. She nests every 1-3 years, always returning to her birthplace. While it’s unclear exactly how long these turtles live, they are believed to have lifespans of up to 160 years.
Endangered Turtles in North Cyprus
The loggerhead and green turtles, the primary species nesting in North Cyprus, are both endangered, with green turtles being particularly at risk. North Cyprus and Turkey provide essential nesting grounds for these turtles, with over 80 monitored beaches supporting their activities from May to October.
Witnessing the Turtles
Visitors to North Cyprus have the unique opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Enjoy a boat tour to see turtles swimming in the crystal-clear waters, or venture out at night to witness the awe-inspiring sight of turtles nesting.
Conservation Efforts
Ecologists and students have dedicated years to studying and protecting these rare species from extinction, ensuring their survival for future generations.
Key Information
- Mating Season: May/June
- Hatching Season: August/September
- Nesting Season: June/July
By learning about the sea turtles of North Cyprus, you gain a deeper appreciation for these extraordinary beings. If your travels bring you to the region, make time to experience the beauty and wonder of these incredible sea turtles in their natural environment. Visitors are welcomed to partake in this unforgettable experience!
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