Sea Turtle Conservation Triumphs in Quintana Roo: The Success Story Unveiled!

On December 4th and 5th, the Xcacel-Xcacelito Marine Turtle Sanctuary State Reserve hosted a workshop to discuss the outcomes of the 2024 Sea Turtle Season. The event brought together experts, organizations, and authorities to review the progress made in the conservation programs implemented in Quintana Roo during the nesting season.

AKUMAL'S CONSERVATION EFFORTS

The Akumal Ecological Centre (CEA), represented by hydrobiologist Claudia León, shared their achievements for the season. On their beaches:

• 503 green turtle nests and 241 loggerhead turtle nests were safeguarded.
• 49,809 hatchlings from both species were released into the wild.
• The beaches with the highest nesting activity included:
  • Tortugas Beach: 308 nests.
  • Akumal Bay: 202 nests.
  • South Akumal: 128 nests.
  • Media Luna Bay: 106 nests.

COZUMEL'S ACHIEVEMENTS

On Cozumel Island, the Parks and Museums Foundation reported on the 2024 Marine Turtle Protection Program of the Punta Sur Turtle Camp. Their accomplishments include:

• Recording 747 nests, with:
  • 619 green turtle nests.
  • 128 loggerhead turtle nests.
• Releasing 1,965 hatchlings (1,863 green turtles and 102 loggerhead turtles).

XCACEL-XCACELITO: A LEADING EXAMPLE

The Xcacel-Xcacelito Sanctuary, the primary nesting area for sea turtles in Quintana Roo, achieved a historic record with 69,914 protected nests and the release of over 5 million hatchlings in its 36 years of operation, according to the Biodiversity and Natural Protected Areas Institute of Quintana Roo (Ibanqroo). This accomplishment underscores the sanctuary's vital role in protecting marine species in the Mexican Caribbean.

LOOKING AHEAD

The results demonstrate a collaborative effort among institutions, specialists, and communities to address challenges such as climate change and human impact. They also emphasize the significance of environmental education and community involvement as key factors in preserving these species.