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Coastguard officers and volunteers work on protecting leatherback turtles in Limón |
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By the A.M. Costa Rica staff
The National Coastguard Service officers and members of Laguna Urpiano Wildlife Refuge* are working together to protect the leatherback turtle in the sector of the Matina* in Limón. "A very valuable, very timely experience that makes us very aware of the need for the Coast Guard to continue supporting the protection sector in this sector, and to prevent these eggs from being stolen and detaining the corresponding people," said Michael Soto, Minister of Security. Since last March and until the end of this month of May, the coastguards and volunteers patrol the beach to protect leatherback turtles and allow them to spawn. The turtle eggs that are collected in good condition are taken to a nursery where they are placed in the sand. After two months, the eggs begin to hatch. "We walk every night between 10 and 12 kilometers to try to save as many turtles as possible," said Greivin Portuguez, coast guard officer. According to the Coast Guard results report, 148 people have been expelled from the beach late at night for putting the turtle nesting process at risk. In addition, 8 people were arrested for egg removal. 940 eggs have been confiscated, of which 858 eggs could be rescued in a nursery. According to the Coast Guard officers, leatherback turtles and green turtles are endangered species due to the extraction of their eggs and the illegal killing of turtles for meat sales. The members of the Wildlife Refuge call on everyone who can to do voluntary work. Those interested in volunteering can call (506) 8420-4090 for more information. ------------- Have you ever seen turtles nesting in Costa Rica? We would like to know your thoughts on this story. Send your comments to: news@amcostarica.com |
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