Species conservation of endangered sea turtles in Costa Rica

Costa Rica is home to fascinating flora and fauna, including four species of sea turtles. They use the country's vast beaches for nesting during the breeding season. Unfortunately, poachers and natural predators threaten the survival of the hatchlings, leaving most species in acute danger of extinction. Learn in the article how Costa Rica protects the turtles.

Native turtles in Costa Rica

The olive ridley turtle is the most widespread of the four species of sea turtles in Costa Rica. They come in large numbers to lay their eggs on the beaches, especially on the beach of the Ostional Wildlife Refuge. There, the phenomenon of the "Arribada" takes place every year, when thousands of turtles come to the beach at the same time for several days to lay their eggs. 

Besides the olive ridley turtle, the green sea turtle, the leatherback turtle and the hawksbill turtle are also native. All species return to the sea after laying eggs on the beach to leave the hatchlings to the warmth of the sun. The eggs are at great risk from predators, and poachers also seek out the nests to plunder them. If the brood is intact, the young hatch after about 55 to 56 days and immediately head for the water. There, additional dangers lurk from plastic waste and ghost nets as well as fishing.

Why the protection of turtles is important

The protection of turtles in Costa Rica is significant for several reasons. One is the preservation of biodiversity. The armored animals are an important part of the marine ecosystem, which is affected by their presence and behavior. The extinction of the turtles can trigger a chain reaction that can affect the entire environment. 

On the other hand, the turtles are an important attraction that helps to promote the local economy. Tourists from all over the world come to Costa Rica to experience the beauty and diversity of nature. Overall, the protection of turtles in Costa Rica is crucial for the protection of the environment, the promotion of tourism and the preservation of tradition and culture.

Organizations on site

The following three organizations are working locally to preserve biodiversity:

1. Costa Rican Alliance for Sea Turtle Conservation & Science (COASTS): A non-profit organization that conducts research and advocacy for the protection of all species of turtles in Costa Rica.

2. Latin American Sea Turtles (LAST): An organization that works with local people to conserve and protect the population of sea turtles.

3. The Leatherback Trust: An organization that specializes in the protection of leatherback turtles, which are in danger of extinction. They work to preserve and protect the habitat of the turtles.

These organizations and others work closely together to ensure the protection of sea turtles in Costa Rica. They work to monitor nesting beaches, reduce light pollution along the coast, and raise awareness among the public. In this way, the protection and conservation of sea turtles and their habitats is ensured. On the respective websites of the organizations you will find information on how you can support the projects.

Where and when you can observe the animals

Almost everywhere in Costa Rica there is the possibility to observe turtles. However, there are certain places and times when you have the best chance of seeing them. Here are some examples:

Tortuguero National Park: This park on the Caribbean coast is one of the best areas in Costa Rica to observe turtles. From July to October, mainly green sea turtles come ashore here to lay their eggs.

Eastern Pacific: The Pacific coast near national parks such as Manuel Antonio, Corcovado and Marino Ballena is also a popular place for sea turtles. 

La Flor Beach Reserve: This beach on the southern Pacific coast is famous for its olive bastard turtles. Every year thousands of them come to the beach to lay their eggs. The best time is from July to December.

More about the National Parks of the country you will learn in our next article.

Some tips before you visit the turtles in Costa Rica

In order not to disturb the animals in their natural habitat, it is important to maintain a respectful approach. Disturbances such as noise and bright light, for example from the flash of a camera, can affect the turtles. To increase the likelihood of a sighting, it is advisable to adjust the time and place to the turtles' breeding seasons and, if necessary, join an organized tour. 

To experience the natural spectacle of the turtles as an observer is a special experience. If you now have an appetite for Costa Rica, you can explore the home of the turtles with your own eyes, on the TripLegend Costa Rica Adventure!