The Ministry of Environment has recognized several projects protecting sea turtles in Panama. The ongoing work carried out by these organizations promotes the conservation of sea turtles.

Communities studying and raising awareness on sea turtles play a crucial role in preserving and protecting these essential marine creatures, which are an integral part of the marine ecosystem. Their dedicated efforts in conservation of turtle habitats, creating safe nests, and offering educational programs aimed at raising awareness about the importance of a healthy ocean shape what the future generation will value. 

All species and their habitats in Panama are protected by Law 371 of 2023, and the country actively participates in international conventions, including the Inter-American Convention for the Protection and Conservation of Sea Turtles (IAC), whose next COP will be held in Panama in 2028.

Sea Turtle Conservation in Panama 

By engaging local communities and fostering a spirit of environmental stewardship, they have made significant strides in ensuring that future generations can enjoy the presence of sea turtles in their natural habitats.

The recognition they’ve received serves as a testament to their hard work and a call to action for others to join in this vital cause. Collaborative efforts can lead to meaningful change and a more sustainable world.

These are the organizations that received the recognition:

Tortuguias Foundation, which operates on Punta Chame Beach in West Panama, represented by Adriana and Jeanellys Moreno;

Tortugas Pedasí, on Lagarto Beach, Los Santos, with Robert Shahverdians;

The Association of Friends and Neighbors of the Coast and Nature (AAMVECONA), on San San Beach, Bocas del Toro, represented by Evelin Rivas;

The activity was held within the framework of the workshop " Homologation of Information and Strengthening Actions for the Conservation and Management of Sea Turtle Resources ," held on September 11 and 12 at the International Maritime University of Panama (UMIP). The workshop brought together more than 50 representatives of community organizations, NGOs, technical staff, park rangers, and national and international researchers.

Sea Turtles in Panama

Panama, a bridge between North and South America, is a crucial habitats that support a variety of sea turtle species. Six of the world’s seven sea turtle species can be found in Panama, making it a significant location for their conservation.

The Seven Species of Sea Turtles

Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea): The largest of all sea turtles, leatherbacks can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. They are unique for their lack of a hard shell, instead having a leathery carapace. Leatherbacks are agile swimmers, capable of traveling vast distances across the ocean.

Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas): Known for their herbivorous diet, green turtles play a vital role in maintaining the health of seagrass beds. They are named for the greenish color of their cartilage and fat, not their shells.

Hawksbill Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata): Recognizable by their narrow, pointed beaks and beautifully patterned shells, hawksbills are crucial for coral reef ecosystems, as they help control sponge populations.

Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta): With their large heads and strong jaws, loggerheads primarily feed on hard-shelled prey like crabs and mollusks. They are known to nest along the Atlantic coast of Panama.

Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea): The smallest of the sea turtles, olive ridleys are known for their unique mass nesting behavior called arribada, where thousands of females come ashore to nest simultaneously.

Kemp’s Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys kempii): The rarest sea turtle species, Kemp’s ridleys are primarily found in the Gulf of Mexico. Though not native to Panama, they occasionally visit its waters.

Flatback Turtle (Natator depressus): Native to the Australian waters, flatbacks are not found naturally in Panama but are included in global conservation discussions.

Nesting Sites in Panama

Panama’s coastline is dotted with critical nesting sites that provide safe havens for sea turtles. During the 22nd Hawksbill Turtle Monitoring Campaign in Coiba National Park, held from August 18 to 23, 34 specimens were captured and 76 recaptured, for a total of 110 turtles monitored. At La Marinera Beach, 3,297 specimens were recorded in mass arrival events. 

Here are some other nesting sites for sea turtles in Panama and the conservation groups protecting them: 

Bocas del Toro: Known for its lush landscapes and vibrant coral reefs, Bocas del Toro hosts crucial nesting sites like Soropta Beach, where the Sea Turtle Conservancy works tirelessly to protect turtle populations.

Punta Chame Beach, West Panama: Home to the Tortuguias Foundation.

Lagarto Beach, Los Santos: Managed by Tortugas Pedasí, this site is vital for the conservation of olive ridley and leatherback turtles.

San San Beach, Bocas del Toro: AAMVECONA operates here, ensuring the protection of nesting sites through community involvement.

Malena Beach, Veraguas: ACOPLAMA is dedicated to preserving the natural habitat of nesting turtles on this beautiful beach 

Mata Oscuro, Veraguas: Agua y Tierra The 9th Turtle Fair took place in Mata Oscura de Mariato, Veraguas, with various socio-environmental and turtle conservation activities.

Sea Turtle Releases in Punta Chame, Panama 

Scan the QR code to join the Tortuguias Foundation for a special sea turtle release activity and directly contribute to their conservation.

Participation Dates: Every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in September

Location: Tortuguias Foundation Hatchery, Playa El Cabezo, Punta Chame, Panama

Suggested Donation: To experience the release of baby sea turtles and directly support their conservation:

• $15.00 for adults (adults)

• $10.00 for minors (5 to 18 years old)

• Children under five years old do not need to donate.

For more information:

• +507 6323-7023

• ✉️ info@tortuguias.org

The Arribada Phenomenon at La Marinera Beach

The arribada is a remarkable natural event where thousands of olive ridley sea turtles arrive simultaneously on coastlines to lay their eggs. This phenomenon is notably observed at La Marinera Beach, located in Guánico Abajo, Tonosí, on Panama’s Pacific coast. This beach, though only 600 meters long, has become a vital refuge for sea turtles and a hub for biodiversity.

There are typically three Arribada events occurring each year. The most likely time to witness this event is between August and December. In November 2022, the beach witnessed one of the largest arribadas recorded, with 24,110 olive ridley sea turtles nesting over just two days.

La Marinera Beach is one of the few places worldwide where this phenomenon occurs, drawing attention from Panama’s Ministry of Environment (MiAmbiente). The ministry recognizes the beach as a crucial space for marine biodiversity and supports various conservation initiatives. The beach is also an ideal natural laboratory for studying sea turtle population dynamics, with research focusing on numerous factors affecting these creatures, such as nesting population monitoring, microplastics, heavy metals, and incubation temperatures.

How you can help protect Sea Turtles in Panama 

The conservation of sea turtles in Panama is not just a task for organizations but a responsibility shared by local communities, volunteers, and visitors. By supporting initiatives like those led by these groups and others, we can educate ourselves and contribute to the preservation of the natural world. 

For more Sea Turtle volunteer opportunities, connect with Agua y Tierra here.