The Navy (Semar) reported on Wednesday the location of seven abandoned sacks containing approximately 4,000 sea turtle eggs of the golfina species, which is in danger of extinction, in the state of Oaxaca.
The discovery was made a few days ago by naval personnel who were conducting land patrols and surveillance in the vicinity of the Escobilla Beach Sanctuary, in the municipality of Santa María Tonameca, Oaxaca, when the elements noticed that there were seven abandoned sacks among the weeds.
In light of the events, the Navy personnel proceeded to carry out a routine inspection to identify what the sacks contained, so they found the sea turtle eggs inside.
After being located, the turtle eggs were delivered to the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA) to be placed in the nesting area and allow their birth.
“As a result, the seized turtle eggs were handed over to PROFEPA personnel and were later transferred to the camp of the National Commission of Protected Areas (CONANP) to be replanted in the nesting areas of that camp,” the Navy explained.
Because it is in danger of extinction, this species of turtle is protected by the Navy, which aims to carry out inspection and surveillance tours on the beaches of the Mexican coasts to prevent the looting of eggs and carry out awareness-raising actions with the civilian population.
“The Navy, through the Mexican Navy, reaffirms its commitment to the preservation of the marine environment, the protection of species and the care of those that are in danger of extinction in our country,” the statement reads.
About the olive ridley turtles
The olive ridley turtle, scientifically known as Lepidochelys olivacea, is one of the most abundant species of sea turtles in the world. In Mexico, this species is of great ecological and cultural importance, nesting mainly on the Pacific coasts, from Jalisco to Oaxaca.
The “arribada” phenomenon is characteristic of olive ridley turtles, where thousands of females arrive simultaneously to the beaches to lay their eggs. In Mexico, the beaches of Escobilla and Morro Ayuta in Oaxaca are crucial sites for this event, with nesting seasons running from May to September.
Olive ridley turtles face threats such as poaching, bycatch, and pollution, which has led to significant conservation efforts. Local organizations and communities work hard to protect nests, release hatchlings into the sea, and educate the population about the importance of their conservation.
The Mexican government, together with international organizations, has implemented protection programs under legal regulations, ensuring the management and protection of these turtles to preserve this emblematic species of the country’s marine biodiversity.
Source: infobae
