These gentle, graceful creatures – sea turtles – have roamed our oceans for millions of years. However, because of plastic pollution, their numbers are falling rapidly. From the moment they hatch, they face the risk of injury or death from ingesting or getting tangled in plastic.
The work of sea turtle conservation projects in southern Africa are increasingly vital, not only to monitor sea turtle activity but also to ensure safe entry of hatchlings into the ocean. By monitoring key sites during the nesting season, turtles that are in danger, like this little one, have a higher chance of survival.
Thanks to the incredible team of marine rangers at Maputo National Park these beautiful sea creatures have a much better chance of survival. The marine rangers carry out vital conservation and monitoring work, patrolling the beach to check for any turtles that might need assistance. They look out for the welfare of the turtles, which is especially important as some species are critically endangered and others endangered. As these amazing creatures can live for 80 years, saving a nesting female really does contribute towards rebuilding the sea turtle population. Turtle monitors, Agostinho and João are rightly proud of the work they do along this coast. Their work is a massive contribution to sea turtle conservation globally.
Sea turtles are vital for future human generations as well as other marine life. Scientists believe that sea turtles protect coral reefs by grazing on sponges that would otherwise take over the reefs. Some species graze on seagrass beds, promoting healthier and faster seabed growth, vital to many species of fish and other marine animals. The vulnerable leatherback turtle also plays a critical role in the ocean’s fish populations by keeping the jellyfish population in check.
Although sea turtles are adept at managing the ocean – using the earth’s magnetic field to navigate across the globe – sadly, plastic is not something they are adapted to avoid, so keeping conservation areas clean and clear of plastic is a huge step in protecting the species.
BREAKING NEWS: Maputo Special Reserve and Ponta do Ouro Partial Marine Reserve declared Maputo National Park. Read more here.
