Sea Turtle Nests Surpass 10,000 in Mexican Caribbean

Tulum, Quintana Roo — The sea turtle nesting season in the Mexican Caribbean is progressing with encouraging results, according to the latest report from Leonel Gómez Nieto, head of the marine turtle conservation program for Flora, Fauna y Cultura de México.

To date, more than 10,000 nests have been counted along the coast, spanning from Punta Venado to the Sian Ka’an Reserve, with the Xcacel-Xcacelito sanctuary highlighted as one of the key points.

Gómez Nieto emphasized that this achievement is the result of the joint effort of more than 40 collaborators and volunteers, who conduct daily patrols for the surveillance, registration, and protection of the nests. The nesting season, which is expected to continue for another two or three months, opens the possibility of surpassing these numbers, thereby increasing the chances of success in the conservation of these endangered species.

Among the most common species recorded so far are the loggerhead and the white turtle, in addition to some specimens of the hawksbill, which is cataloged as critically endangered.

The specialist noted that the reproductive behavior of sea turtles is cyclical, with variations that allow for the anticipation of a favorable year for nesting in 2025.

However, conservation work faces constant challenges. Despite the progress, the looting of nests continues to be an illegal practice in the region. The presence of the Mexican Navy and the National Guard has contributed to a decrease in these criminal acts.

Furthermore, domestic and feral animals represent another significant risk, endangering both the nests and the hatchlings. Light pollution and furniture on the beaches also constitute obstacles in the spawning process for the females and in the journey of the hatchlings to the sea.

In this context, Gómez Nieto stressed the importance of intensifying environmental education among residents, tourists, and service providers: "Information and awareness are the best tools to protect our environment."

Quintana Roo, with more than 30% of its territory under some category of protection, positions itself as an essential corridor for sea turtles in the Caribbean. Active collaboration between civil society, authorities, and local communities will be fundamental to ensuring a successful future in the preservation of these species.