Sea turtle nest witnessed by tourists in Avithos, Kefalonia

Sea turtle nest on Avithos, Kefalonia
A sea turtle came out on Avithos during the previous night and laid its nest. The track was identified by the surveying team early in the morning.

Local and foreign visitors on the beach of Avithos yesterday afternoon had the opportunity to witness the verification and protection of a loggerhead sea turtle nest.

The nest had been laid by a mother turtle during the previous night, and the surveying team of Wildlife Sense had found its tracks the following morning. The nest had to be located and verified so that it could be marked to avoid any accidental damage. The nest area was temporarily marked with bamboo posts and string, and the team returned later during the afternoon to locate the precise location, confirm the presence of sea turtle eggs, and protect them.

With tens of surprised visitors and their cameras watching, and with the narration of the procedure by the team's leader, the researchers located the nest, took the necessary measurements, marked the nest and added a sign with some extra information, so that the incubating nest and the beach visitors can safely share the beach.

Visitors watched the nest identification and protection
A small crowd watched as the researchers team identified and protected the nest.

Little hatchlings will emerge from this nest in seven to eight weeks. To make it to the sea, the nest must remain protected and undisturbed, while strong lights and vibrations must be avoided during the nights the hatchlings emerge from the nest.

Wildlife Sense surveying team after protecting a nest
A group photo of the surveying team. We'll watch this nest closely to check that the hatchlings made it to the sea.

Written by Nikos Vallianos | .

Tags: sea turtle nest, Caretta caretta, conservation, sea turtle, Kefalonia, volunteer, Natura 2000, loggerhead