November to April Releases
Our hatchling releases, when we release, are done thirty minutes before sunrise, and fifteen minutes after sunset, when they are less vulnerable from land and sea preditors. They are released without notice. We traditionally do not announce our releases, ensuring focus making sure turtle make it safely to the ocean. Coco stands guard at releases and will keep birds at bay, and crabs that might go after the hatchlings. She has been known to snap at people who get too close, and she has rescued hatchlings that have been pulled by crabs into their habitat.
Step 1: Nesting Season
Sea turtles arrive on Playa de Coco throughout the year through the species, returning to the beach to nest in the sand above the tide line. Although turtle activity can occur in throughout the year, our preservation work is focused from November through April, when conditions give hatchlings the strongest chance of survival. During that period, we respond by identifying and relocating vulnerable nests, monitoring incubation, and preparing for safe hatchling release. Outside those months, the mortality rate is significantly higher, due to the summer heat so our active preservation efforts are concentrated when they can be most effective.
Step 2: Protection and Monitoring
Our process begins by locating vulnerable nests and placing them within protected sanctuary enclosures designed to reduce the risk of predation and disturbance. The nests are safeguarded with wire mesh walls and shaded roofing to help protect against birds, crabs, domestic dogs, heat of the sun, and human interference. During incubation, the nests are carefully monitored, four times a day, so we can observe their progress and respond when hatchlings are ready to emerge. Throughout the process, we aim to protect the eggs while preserving conditions as close to nature as possible. Hatchlings are released early morning, just after day break, and just after sunset
Step 3: Hatchling Release
There is something truly magical about watching hatchlings emerge and begin their first journey toward the sea, guided only by instinct and the rhythm of nature. It is a quiet, moving moment that reminds us how extraordinary and fragile life can be. Our conservation approach is always respectful, with the goal of protecting the turtles while interfering as little as possible. We seek to recreate the natural experience as closely as we can, allowing each release to remain both protected and authentic.
