Greece is celebrating a conservation victory as it witnesses an unprecedented surge in Caretta caretta sea turtle nests this year.
The increased numbers, reaching record highs in both the southern Kyparissia Gulf and the Zakynthos National Marine Park, highlight the success of 15 years of dedicated conservation efforts.
With approximately 7,500 nests recorded in the Kyparissia Gulf, nearly five times the average of the past 15 years, and over 2,350 nests identified in the Laganas Gulf as of August 27th, this year marks a 30-year high for the species.
The figures are particularly significant as Greece is home to 60% of the total Caretta caretta population in the Mediterranean, with Zakynthos and the Kyparissia Gulf being their primary nesting areas in Europe.
The surge in turtle nests for the second consecutive year, as noted by Lorran Sourbes, head of the Zakynthos National Park Management Unit, indicates a thriving breeding season and a positive outlook for the species' future.
The conservation efforts have been so successful that Caretta caretta is now classified as "low-risk" on Greece's Red List of Threatened Species, a far cry from its previous endangered status.
The shift is a testament to decades of diligent management in nesting areas, experts say.
A testament to this success is the world record set in 2023 by a turtle named Gaia, first observed on Zakynthos in 1986.
She was recorded nesting on Sekania beach after 37 years of reproductive life, surpassing the previous record of 36 years held by a turtle in Florida, USA.
However, despite the encouraging progress, conservationists warn that the increased nest numbers do not signify the end of threats to sea turtles.
Fishing activities, particularly due to dwindling fish stocks, and sea pollution from plastics and ghost nets continue to pose serious risks. The Archelon Sea Turtle Rescue Center in Glyfada plays a vital role in treating injured turtles.
The Caretta caretta, which lays eggs every two to four years on sandy beaches between June and September, is a migratory species, but those born in the Mediterranean tend to stay within the region.
These majestic creatures, with shell lengths reaching up to 120 cm and weights of up to 150 kg, inhabit both deep waters and coastal areas, feeding on diverse marine life. In captivity, they can live up to 60 years.