Ascension : Turtle Nesting Starts
Submitted by The Islander (Jacqui Ellick) 20.12.2007 (Article Archived on 03.01.2008)

Once again it is the time of year for the green turtles to migrate to Ascension from Brazil, swimming 2,000km in 6 weeks.

Once again it is the time of year for the green turtles to migrate to Ascension from Brazil, swimming 2,000km in 6 weeks. They will mate in the bays off the beaches of Ascension before coming ashore to nest.

We would like to advise the public to follow guidelines on notice boards located at the main nesting beaches. Information is also available from the Conservation Centre.

Monitoring has started on the main nesting beaches and it has been observed that female turtles have been disturbed after coming ashore, causing them to abort nesting and return to the sea. It is important that they are allowed to nest undisturbed, without torches or camera lights being directed at them, as there is the possibility of the turtle returning to the water and depositing their eggs.

Organized turtle tours can be arranged through booking at the Conservation Centre on 6359.  Tours are on Monday and Thursday nights. On a tour you will be able to watch a turtle nest, without disturbing other turtles.