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Sea Turtles

Akumal Sea TurtlesThe beaches of Akumal, Mexico are nesting grounds for two endangered species of sea turtles: the Loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and the Green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas). Nesting season for these turtles is May through October. After mating at sea the female turtle swims to shore to dig a nest for her eggs. It is not unusual to see turtles nesting at night on the beaches of Akumal.

If you should see a turtle at night please do not disturb or shine a flashlight on it as this may disrupt their reproductive cycle. Female turtles dig their nests on the beach with their flippers, then lay their eggs and cover them with sand. They then crawl back to the surf zone and swim out to sea. After 50 - 60 days the baby turtles hatch from the nests and try to make their way through the surf zone and out to sea. Caution should be exercised when walking the nesting beaches in order to avoid trampling nests where eggs are incubating.

Avoid stepping on mounds in the sand or anywhere that you see sticks with markers pushed into the sand. The Centro Ecologico Akumal (CEA) for the past four years has been actively particpating in the sea turtle protection program. A restricted and watched hatchery area has been created to better protect some of the nests of eggs, thus producing a higher yeild upon hatching.

To witness such an event is amazing, but if you happen to miss turtle season, CEA offers a slide presentation weekly on sea turtles. Addition printed material is also available about sea turtles. Established in July of 1993, CEA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the ecologically sustainable development of the Cancun-Tulum corridor. CEA promotes conservation of the natural habitat and native culture through research and education. If you are visiting the Akumal area, stop by the CEA Information Center open every day 7am to 5pm and check the CEA calendar for the weekly schedule of activites and events. For more information about CEA, membership or turtle protection program contact CEA: Centro Ukana 1 Akumal AC, Apartado Postal #127, Playa Del Carmen, Q. Roo Mexico 77710.