Sea turtules
Sea turtles, true emblems of tropical wildlife, embody the harmony and resilience of marine ecosystems. In Guadeloupe, they play a fundamental role in the balance of the marine environment, while captivating visitors with their natural grace. This article invites you to explore the world of sea turtles, their habitats in Guadeloupe, the species that live there, and how to observe them while contributing to their preservation.
Sector and location
Sea turtles in Guadeloupe frequent several key habitats: nesting beaches, such as those of Sainte-Anne and Deshaies, and feeding areas like coral reefs and seagrass beds in zones such as the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin and the Cousteau Reserve. These areas are protected to preserve these endangered species and provide favorable living conditions.
The different species of sea turtles in Guadeloupe
Guadeloupe is home to three main species of sea turtles:
- Green turtle (Chelonia mydas): An herbivore commonly found in seagrass beds.
- Hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata): Easily recognizable by its elegant shell; it feeds mainly on sponges.
- Leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea): The largest of all sea turtles; it migrates over long distances and nests on certain Guadeloupean beaches. The history of these turtles is closely linked to Guadeloupean traditions, although their hunting is now prohibited. Thanks to widespread awareness efforts, their presence is now seen as a natural treasure worth protecting. One striking example of this connection happened in 2020, when a leatherback turtle laid eggs on a crowded beach in Saint-François—an emotional reminder of the urgent need to coexist harmoniously with nature.
Activities and points of interest
Encountering sea turtles is a magical experience. Here’s what you can do:
- Nesting and hatching observation: Night excursions offer the chance to witness these unique moments, guided by experts. The beaches of Deshaies and Le Helleux are ideal for these experiences.
- Snorkeling in seagrass beds: In areas such as the Cousteau Reserve or Malendure Bay, you can observe green turtles feeding.
- Educational workshops: Local associations like Kap’Natirel engage the public through talks and awareness events.
- Join conservation programs: Some organizations allow visitors to contribute to turtle monitoring efforts.
Tips and best practices for visitors
- Best season: Nesting season runs from March to October, with most hatchings occurring between June and November.
- Responsible behavior: Never touch the turtles, avoid disturbing nests, and don’t use artificial light on nesting beaches.
- Recommended gear: Bring binoculars for distant observation or snorkeling gear for gentle underwater encounters.
- Choose guided excursions: These ensure respectful and educational experiences.
Frequently asked questions
Why are sea turtles endangered? Sea turtles face numerous threats: plastic pollution, poaching, the destruction of nesting beaches, and climate change. Can you swim with turtles in Guadeloupe? Yes, as long as you maintain a respectful distance and don’t interfere with their natural behavior. What can I do to help protect sea turtles? Don’t leave trash on the beach, use red-light flashlights near nesting areas, and support local conservation initiatives. Where can you see sea turtles in Guadeloupe? The best spots include the Cousteau Reserve, the beaches of Deshaies, and the seagrass beds in the Grand Cul-de-Sac Marin.