Phang Nga’s turtle nesting season continues with more nests discovered

Phang Nga’s turtle nesting season continues and more nests are being discovered. Two more nests were found, bringing the total number of nests unearthed to eight so far, The Phuket Express reported today.

The nests were found on the Baan Thung Darp Beach in the Koh Phra Thong sub-district of Kura Buri district.

The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) said the eggs are not being moved since they are in an area that is not affected by seawater or bad weather. However, the two nests are being fenced for their protection.

In a Facebook post about leatherback turtles in Phang Nga yesterday, the department said it was installing bamboo fences to protect eggs, monitoring the situation of leatherback turtles, and continuing to raise awareness on marine conservation.

In November, 118 turtle eggs were found, marking the start of nesting season. Out of the 118 eggs, 106 were fertile and in good condition. Officials moved the eggs to a high-tech nest with a fence and CCTV cameras, along with thermometers to monitor the incubation process.

DMCR chief Atthaphol Charoenchansa said that specialists are seeing a return of sea turtles on Phuket and Phang Nga beaches. More turtles and nests are being spotted each season. From 2018 to 2019 only three nests were found, and in 2021 the total had already hit 18.

From 2012 to 2017, there were zero turtle nest findings. Atthapol said this was due to beachfront development in Phuket, as well as irresponsible fishing and marine pollution.

Only one in 1,000 sea turtle hatchlings is thought to make it to adulthood. Without guidance, many hatchlings die from dehydration because they don’t make it to the ocean fast enough.

In Thailand, park rangers play a crucial role in protecting sea turtle eggs and hatchlings. Rangers often move eggs they find to safer spots and help to safely guide hatchlings into the sea.