Save the Turtles

Boa Vista in Cabo Verde is home to nesting loggerhead and hawksbill turtles, two of the most endangered species of sea turtles in the world. Both species are under threat from human activity, such as pollution, poaching, and habitat destruction. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), loggerhead turtles are classified as Vulnerable, while hawksbill turtles are classified as Critically Endangered. It is estimated that only 8,000 nesting females remain in the world for the hawksbill turtle species. In Boa Vista, the turtle population is particularly vulnerable, as the nesting beaches are shared with tourism development and urbanisation.

Conservation efforts in Boa Vista focus on protecting turtle nests from poaching, raising awareness in local communities about the importance of sea turtle conservation, and collecting data on the turtle population to better understand their behaviour and habitat needs. By supporting organisations that work to protect sea turtles in Boa Vista we can help ensure that these majestic animals are protected and their populations can recover.

The Turtle Foundation is a charity that works to protect endangered sea turtles and their habitats. The organisation operates in several countries, including Cabo Verde, where they work to protect nesting beaches and hatchlings from predators, poachers, and natural threats. Their work includes conducting research, monitoring turtle populations, and educating local communities on the importance of conservation.

The Turtle Foundation's work is crucial as sea turtles are facing a variety of threats, including habitat loss, pollution, bycatch, and hunting for their meat, eggs, and shells. These threats have led to significant declines in turtle populations, with some species classified as critically endangered. The work of the Turtle Foundation and similar organisations is essential in ensuring the survival and recovery of these important and iconic species.