Tulum Safeguards 650+ Sea Turtle Nests This Season

Tulum, Mexico — The sea turtle nesting season in Tulum is progressing actively, with more than 658 nests recorded to date. Environmental authorities anticipate this year’s total could exceed 10,000 nests despite challenges such as sargassum influx, plastic pollution, and human pressure on coastal areas.

Vigilance and Community Efforts Drive Conservation

Armando Angulo, Director of Ecology for the municipality, emphasized the importance of constant beach monitoring and public awareness campaigns to protect the endangered species.

“We urge visitors not to leave trash, to use available waste containers, and, most importantly, to avoid using white lights or approaching turtles when they come ashore to nest. If they spot one, they should call 911 immediately so the Surveillance Committee can respond,” Angulo explained.

A team of at least 20 people—including staff, volunteers, and committed citizens—conducts nightly patrols along the coastline to ensure nests remain undisturbed. So far, no cases of egg theft have been reported this season.

Addressing Sargassum and Environmental Compliance

Regarding sargassum, Angulo noted that ongoing monitoring efforts in coordination with the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat) and the Navy Secretariat aim to prevent the seaweed from blocking nesting areas. While some beaches have seen heavy accumulations, conditions remain suitable for turtle reproduction.

On compliance with environmental regulations, Angulo stated that most hotels and tourism businesses are cooperating. Monthly workshops educate businesses on protecting turtles and jaguars, and authorities have removed beach furniture obstructing nesting paths.

Violations can result in fines ranging from 50 to 300 UMAs (Units of Measure and Update), with severe cases involving intervention from PROFEPA (Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection) or Public Safety authorities if nests are tampered with.

Inspections Extend to Cenotes

Angulo added that inspections are also being conducted in tourist-visited cenotes to verify compliance with solid waste management plans. While no fines have been issued yet, some cases of poor practices have been addressed through environmental awareness talks.

“Our goal is to preserve Tulum’s ecological balance and ensure this natural paradise remains a space where biodiversity, like sea turtles, can coexist harmoniously with tourism,” he concluded.