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Thousands of endangered sea turtle hatchlings, known as caretta caretta, have emerged from their nests on Kizilot Beach in Antalya, Türkiye, and embarked on a critical journey to the Mediterranean Sea. The event, captured by Anadolu Agency (AA) photographers, highlights both the challenges these young turtles face and the dedicated of conservation efforts protecting them.
The nests are closely monitored under the Research, Monitoring And Conservation of Sea Turtles Project, led by Ali Fuat Canbolat, a lecturer at Hacettepe University and president of the Ecological Research Association (EKAD). Academics and volunteers maintain continuous "life watches," patrolling the beach from early morning, sometimes covering several kilometers to ensure hatchlings safely reach the water.
Each nest is carefully documented with labeled stakes and GPS markers, while wooden stakes and warning signs help protect the eggs from accidental disturbances. Hatchlings face numerous hazards from the moment they emerge, with only one or two out of every 1,000 expected to survive to adulthood.
Kizilot and the nearby Belek region are among Europe’s largest nesting grounds for the species. EKAD biologist Fatih Polat, responsible for the Kizilot Project, explained that this year over 1,950 nests have been identified, with hatchlings already emerging from a portion of them. He emphasized that each emergence represents a vital step in the survival of the species, noting, “The work is tough, but helping an endangered animal and witnessing hatchlings reach the sea gives us immense satisfaction.”
Polat also highlighted the importance of public awareness, urging visitors to avoid driving all-terrain or off-road vehicles on the beaches, and to manage their waste carefully. Even small obstacles, such as litter, can trap hatchlings and prevent them from reaching the sea. Conservationists work closely with local tourism operators and holidaymakers, informing them about responsible beach behavior.
This year, more than 100 volunteers from seven different countries have joined the efforts in Kizilot, helping to ensure that the region’s endangered turtles continue to thrive. Hatchlings that survive will return to the same beaches 15–20 years later to lay their own eggs, completing the species’ remarkable life cycle.
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