Loggerhead turtles
(Caretta caretta) are a species of marine turtle that are well-known inhabitants of the Fethiye region in Turkey. Fethiye, located on the southwestern coast of Turkey, is a significant nesting area for loggerhead turtles in the Mediterranean.
Here are some key facts about loggerhead turtles in Fethiye:
- Nesting Sites: Fethiye is home to several nesting sites where loggerhead turtles lay their eggs. The most prominent nesting beaches in the area include Ölüdeniz, Çalış, and Patara. These beaches provide the ideal conditions for the turtles to dig their nests and deposit their eggs in the sand.
- Nesting Season: Loggerhead turtles typically nest between May and September. During this period, female turtles come ashore during the night to lay their eggs. They create deep nests in the sand and lay approximately 100-120 eggs in each clutch. After nesting, the females return to the sea, leaving the eggs to incubate.
- Conservation Efforts: Fethiye and the surrounding areas have implemented various conservation measures to protect loggerhead turtles. Local authorities, environmental organizations, and volunteers work together to monitor nesting beaches, protect nests from predators, and raise awareness about the importance of conservation.
- Protection of Nests: Nesting sites are often marked with signs or barriers to prevent disturbance and accidental damage by humans. It is important to respect these markings and avoid tampering with the nests, as even a slight disturbance can negatively impact the hatching success of the eggs.
- Hatchling Emergence: After an incubation period of approximately 55-60 days, the hatchlings begin to emerge from the nests. The tiny turtles make their way to the sea, guided by the natural light reflected on the water. It is crucial to allow them to reach the water unaided, as this journey helps them develop strength and orientation skills.
- Threats: Loggerhead turtles face numerous threats in their natural habitat. Coastal development, pollution, entanglement in fishing gear, and climate change are some of the major challenges. Additionally, disturbance of nesting sites and excessive artificial lighting can disorient hatchlings, leading them away from the sea.
- Tourism and Responsible Practices: Fethiye attracts a significant number of tourists who come to witness the nesting and hatching of loggerhead turtles. It is important for tourists to follow responsible practices such as maintaining a safe distance from nesting turtles and their nests, avoiding flash photography, and refraining from touching or disturbing the turtles in any way.
Overall, Fethiye serves as an important nesting ground for loggerhead turtles in the Mediterranean. The efforts to protect and conserve these turtles are crucial to ensuring their long-term survival and maintaining the ecological balance of the region’s marine ecosystems.
