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The Turtles have Arrived
by Vallarta Online Staff | published: 8/25/2005
 When we’re on the beach, between putting sun tan lotion on the kids and dodging the ice cream vendors, we often forget that the sand and the sea are part of an ecosystem that gives life to thousands of species. The Mexican coasts are home to seven of the eight species of sea turtles that year after year arrive on the beach to lay their eggs. What better way for the children to learn about them except right from the hands of the experts! With these programs, between three and five percent survive to adult age. Proudly, Mexico has one of the most advanced programs in the world for their protection. In all the costal states there exist regulations overseen by non-governmental authorities and organizations that literally watch over their welfare. The program in Puerto Vallarta was created in 1993 and is operated by Unidos Para La Conservacion A.C., a non-profit organization that is links the business sector (hotels) and the local authorities. To protect these species is everyone’s job. Many of them die due to the elements of nature but also by the hands of humands (for each thousand baby turtles, between one and five survive). Sadly, their meat and shells are valuable. With these programs, between three and five percent survive to adult age, but it is eight to twelve years before they return to the coast where they were born and reproduce.  The Vallarta coastline every year offers the opportunity of seeing these creatures nesting on the beaches. The Golfina is the most common, but with luck the Laúd, Prieta and the Pacific Carey may also be seen. Among the activities that the experts carry out are the night patrols, the care and protection of the eggs, and the liberation of the baby turtles (between July and December). Everyone is invited, but for the young it will be an unforgettable adventure.If you are interested in gaining in depth knowledge you can attend Turtle Camp in Nayarit. Under the guidance of biologists you will be introduced to the fascinating life of the Olive Ridley sea turtles. The evening inculdes patroling the beach for turtles laying their eggs and also relasing hatchings into the sea. To participate in a turtle release (no cost) please contact the concierege at the following hotels for information regarding dates and times. Marriot CasaMagna Paseo de la Marina 5, Marina Vallarta Tel. +52 (322) 226-0021 Velas Vallarta Paseo de la Marina 585, Marina Vallarta Tel. +52 (322) 221-0091 Westin Regina Paseo de la Marina 205, Marina Vallarta Tel. +52 (322) 226-1100 Fiesta Americana Blvd. Francisco M. Ascencio Km 2.5, Hotel Zone Tel. +52 (322) 224-2010 Hotel Dreams (Formerly Camino Real) Playa Las Estacas S/N, Mismaloya Tel. +52 (322) 226-5000 Presidente Intercontinental Hotel Road to Barra de Navidad KM. 8.5 Mismaloya Tel. +52 (322) 228-0507 |
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