Introduction to the Sea Turtle Conservation Efforts in Michoacán
Michoacán, a state on Mexico’s west coast, has been the birthplace of approximately 5 million sea turtles from the black, laud, and golfina species during the 2024-2025 nesting season, according to Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla.
Key Nesting Sites and Volunteer Involvement
The nesting took place across 25 turtle conservation camps situated in the municipalities of Lázaro Cárdenas, Aquila, and Coahuayana. These camps facilitated the release of one million hatchlings, while an estimated four million turtles were born naturally on the beaches safeguarded by dedicated volunteers.
Michoacán boasts three primary nesting sanctuaries: Maruata, Colola, and Mexiquillo beaches. These locations are home to the protected black, laud, and golfina turtle species, under the watchful eyes of personnel from the Michoacán State Fisheries Commission (Compesca).
Recognition of Volunteer Efforts
Ramón Hernández Orozco, head of Compesca, praised the work of over 650 volunteers who actively participate in turtle conservation camps. Their efforts are crucial for the preservation of these emblematic Pacific Mexican species.
Preparations for the Next Nesting Season
As preparations for the upcoming nesting season get underway, the Secretariat of Health in Michoacán will conduct preventive fumigation, and the conservation camps will be fine-tuned to ensure readiness for the 2025-2026 nesting period.
Key Questions and Answers
- What species of sea turtles were born in Michoacán? Approximately 5 million black, laud, and golfina sea turtles were born in Michoacán during the 2024-2025 nesting season.
- Where did the sea turtles nest in Michoacán? The nesting took place across three primary sanctuaries: Maruata, Colola, and Mexiquillo beaches.
- How many turtles were released and how many born naturally? One million hatchlings were released, while an estimated four million turtles were born naturally on protected beaches.
- Who are the key figures involved in sea turtle conservation efforts? Governor Alfredo Ramírez Bedolla, Ramón Hernández Orozco (Compesca head), and over 650 dedicated volunteers play crucial roles in these conservation efforts.
- What preparations are being made for the next nesting season? Preventive fumigation by the Secretariat of Health and adjustments to conservation camps are underway for the 2025-2026 nesting season.
