According to scientists, baby sea turtles on the island of Cyprus are facing an additional threat due to climate change as they struggle to make their way to the sea after hatching. The survival of these endangered turtles has been under threat for decades, primarily due to coastal development and fishermen’s nets. However, the rise in sea levels and more frequent and severe storms caused by climate change have now further jeopardized their nesting grounds. Marine biologist Myroulla Hadjichristoforou, who is in charge of the Cyprus Fisheries Department’s marine turtle protection program, noted that the climate this year has been particularly unusual, with extreme weather events such as strong winds and big waves covering the beaches. This has led to the loss of numerous nests.
The challenges faced by the baby turtles do not end once they hatch. They can become disoriented by artificial lights or tire tracks on the beach, increasing their risk of being exposed to the sun and predators like foxes. Even if they manage to reach the sea, they remain vulnerable to birds and fish. Furthermore, changes in temperature can affect the sex of the turtles, with hotter weather resulting in more females and potentially hindering egg hatching.
The survival rate for baby turtles is alarmingly low. Out of every 1,000 hatchlings that reach the sea, only one or two will survive to maturity and return to the beach where they were born to lay their own eggs. Female turtles have an imprint mechanism, similar to a GPS, that guides them back to their birthplace.
Cyprus is home to two endangered turtle species: the Green Turtle and the Loggerhead Caretta Caretta. Conservation efforts on the island have led to an increase in the number of nests, from 300 four decades ago to approximately 2,000 today. Protected areas like the Lara Beach Reserve in the Paphos district have implemented measures such as cages for nest protection and fenced-off hatching areas to ensure the safety of the turtles. However, the challenges posed by climate change require ongoing efforts to mitigate their impact on these vulnerable creatures.