Marine turtles spend their lives migrating great distances. They are born on sandy beaches, but whilst they are still quite young, they begin a long journey in search of a suitable place to feed and grow. Once they reach the age of sexual maturity they travel back to the beach where they were born to lay eggs.
Scientists report that as hatchlings, marine turtles become imprinted to the earth’s magnetic field and, possibly, the smell of the waters adjacent to the nesting beach where they were born. These factors allow them to successfully complete their migration back to the location of their birth. Consequently, during their lifespan, marine turtles may visit or pass through the waters of several countries. Not surprisingly therefore, they are not often considered as belonging to any one country but rather as an important biological resource that is shared amongst several nations.
The marine turtles that nest in Guyana and Suriname have therefore travelled several thousand kilometres to get here! They have battled rough seas, avoided fishing nets and marine pollution to get to Guyana’s waters, simply to lay eggs, and ensure survival of their species. How tragic then, that after all this effort, their journey may be in vain, as carefully laid nests are dug up and the eggs consumed by stray dogs and humans!
Quiz q: If many turtle eggs are dug up and consumed, what will happen to marine turtle populations around Guyana?
Please send answers to:
TURTLES
WWF Guianas
87A Ituni Street
Bel Air Park,
Georgetown, Guyana
