Sea turtle nesting season begins in August each year and generally lasts through early October. October through December and sometimes into early January is hatching season. During both nesting and hatching season, conservationists have played a very important role in helping improve survival rates and protect the species of turtles that nest on the beaches of Mazatlán. One species, in particular, that is in danger of extinction is the Olive Ridley Sea Turtle.
When baby turtles hatch they already face difficult odds to make it to the sea, where even more peril waits for them. Upon hatching, they must cross the beach and make it to the shoreline, birds are a major predator, but humans are a large factor for why this species is near extinction. Trash left on beaches, tracks from vehicles, and of course garbage left in the riverbeds that later wash to the sea, all of these factors making more obstacles for the turtles to overcome and to grow to adulthood.
Guests at any of the El Cid Resorts can get involved in helping the conservation team led by the El Cid and the Mazatlán aquarium team. This is a great experience for families and children to take part in. Witnessing a sea turtle crawl up the beach and lay eggs is a truly wonderful experience, while rare, it does happen hundreds of times throughout August and September.
Conservationists and volunteers, look for tracks, and then either mark the nests with sticks or move the eggs to a protected area where they will be safe. One of the most rewarding and amazing activities to take part in, especially with children, is a turtle hatching and releasing. To be strong enough to make it in the ocean where there is no protection, the turtles need to leave the nest themselves.
When the eggs are ready to hatch conservationists assist by making sure there is a clear path to the water with no tracks and obstacles. The turtles can then crawl out and make their way to the crashing waves. Amazingly the same beach where a turtle is born on is where they will return to as adults to lay eggs in the future, so the efforts in educating the public on keeping the beaches clean and clear are very important to the survival of the species.
El Cid Resorts takes part in several conservation and environmental efforts to help preserve the communities in which its employees live and where the resorts are located. It is important to ensure the destinations remain popular for future generations to enjoy. All guests are invited to participate in the turtle protection and hatching activities, check with the concierge at your resort or front desk for more information.
El Cid Castilla Beach Resort is the base of operations and location for this activity. Efforts made by conservationists have increased the survival rate of this endangered species by 900%. Vacationers and locals alike have assisted in this effort over the years and liberated 384,000 turtle hatchlings. El Cid is proud to assist in this important program.
To plan your vacation and participate in helping the turtles please visit www.elcid.com and plan your adventure now!
