Five species of marine turtles visit Cabo Verde - Green, Leatherback, Olive Ridley, Hawksbill and Loggerhead
All are endangered
Only loggerhead turtles lay their eggs on the beaches in Cabo Verde, which is believed to be the world’s third most important nesting site for this species.
The main nesting areas are found on Boa Vista, Maio and Sal. Each year from June to November the females come ashore to lay their eggs.
Hatchling emerging
A hatched nest
Hatchling tracks
After 56-70 days the hatchlings are born and the survivors will roam the oceans until they are mature. After 20-30 years the females will return to their birthplace to lay their eggs. Males will probably never come ashore again.
Marine turtles could be extinct in Cabo Verde in as little as eight years if nothing is done now.
Laying eggs
Photo : Gois