What is the status of sea turtles in the Cayman Islands?
Despite an immense historical population size, recent surveys by the Department of Environment reveal that only a few dozen nesting green and loggerhead turtles remain in the Cayman Islands. Loss of any turtles represents an enormous loss in genetic diversity, disease resistance, and potential to recover to a healthy population size. Any additional population reduction could push our precariously small populations over the brink of extinction.Against all odds, extremely rare animals have been protected, though others have been lost forever despite efforts to save them. Regaining viable nesting populations represents one of our most critical conservation challenges in the Cayman Islands. Sea turtles represent a central part of Caymanian heritage, and with the enthusiasm and commitment of the community, we could protect our fragile populations for future generations.
Despite an immense historical population size, recent surveys by the Department of Environment reveal that only a few dozen nesting green and loggerhead turtles remain in the Cayman Islands. Loss of any turtles represents an enormous loss in genetic diversity, disease resistance, and potential to recover to a healthy population size. Any additional population reduction could push our precariously small populations over the brink of extinction. Against all odds, extremely rare animals have been protected, though others have been lost forever despite efforts to save them. Regaining viable nesting populations represents one of our most critical conservation challenges in the Cayman Islands. Sea turtles represent a central part of Caymanian heritage, and with the enthusiasm and commitment of the community, we could protect our fragile populations for future generations.
