Threatened Turtles Find Shelter in Nhon Hai Beach: A Conservation Story

A mother turtle belonging to an endangered species returned to Nhon Hai beach in Quy Nhon city to lay 103 eggs on the evening of May 21. The turtles crawling onto the beach of Hai Nam village were discovered by people in Nhon Hai commune and reported to the local Coral and Sea Turtle Protection Group. Members of the turtle protection group came to protect the turtles, relocate their egg nests to a zoned area at Mui Con beach, and ensure the eggs would hatch safely.

The mother turtle, weighing more than 90 kg, was a Green Turtle species and considered as threatened according to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). After a rainy night, the beach was deserted, creating favorable conditions for her to lay her eggs. It is expected that the eggs will hatch after 60 days.

Sea turtles come ashore in Binh Dinh province, including Nhon Hai commune, where they lay their eggs. In 2021, five sea turtles laid a total of 476 eggs in Nhon Hai commune with a successful hatching rate of 54%. Sea turtle conservation expert Ms. Bui Thi Thu Hien explained that monitoring and protecting adult female turtles during their reproductive cycle is crucial for the survival of this endangered species.

The local community is excited about the sea turtles returning to lay eggs near Nhon Hai commune after nearly three years of absence. They are working hard to maintain and protect these creatures while developing marine eco-tourism in the area. The conservation area for sea turtle breeding grounds is strictly protected and efforts are being made to promote tourism development while ensuring that marine ecosystems are conserved.

In conclusion, protecting and conserving sea turtles in Nhon Hai commune is vital for their survival as an endangered species. Monitoring, tagging and strict protection measures must be implemented during their breeding season to ensure their safety and well-being. The local community’s dedication towards preserving these magnificent creatures’ natural habitat while promoting sustainable tourism development should be commended.