Sea turtle nesting season begins in April, and continues through October, during which the port of Progreso becomes a temporary home for hundreds of turtles returning to the beaches to lay their eggs.
In this context, the Progreso City Council issued a series of recommendations in case of sightings, aimed at supporting the conservation of this species.
If a turtle is seen nesting, it is essential to keep your distance and not interfere with the process. It is also recommended to avoid using bright lights, as they can disorient both adult and hatchling turtles. If you find a nest or a turtle in distress, do not touch it, and report the situation to 911.
Under instructions from Mayor Erik Rihani González, the City Council will launch an awareness campaign on the importance of protecting sea turtles, especially during this holiday season when the influx of visitors increases.
The recently created Animal Control and Protection Unit, headed by Mario Geovani Zapata Cervera, is finalizing details to strengthen this campaign, as well as other actions to protect local wildlife. This complies with the objectives of the municipal program “100xProgreso,” within the Safe Progreso axis.
The campaign will also extend to the coastal town of Chuburná Puerto, in coordination with the Lara Corella A.C. Foundation, where informational signs will be posted along the coastal area in the coming days. It is worth noting that this site is one of the spots where hawksbill turtles return to nest year after year.
Sea turtles play a fundamental role in the balance of the marine ecosystem. However, they face constant threats such as pollution, habitat loss, and the illegal consumption of their eggs. Protecting their nests is key to ensuring their survival and preserving the health of our oceans.
For all of the above reasons, the Progreso City Council invites the public to share this information and collaborate in protecting the turtles. If you witness a nesting event, please enjoy the natural spectacle with respect and without interfering.
TYT Newsroom
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