Turtle Watching - Grand Riviere


 Photo by: Earthwatch

Each year between March to September more than 10,000 turtles visit the warm Trinidad shores to nest in the island's beaches. One of the most popular beaches is located in the village of Grand Riviere. which is visited by both local and international nature seekers alike, turtle watching is one of the many exciting activities that one can partake on the island.

The experience was one like no other, we drove for what felt like ages (you know them country people does tell you it right dey and is a whole 45 mins you driving). When we finally got to the beach, in the dead of night, tour guides greeted us and lead us to the beach. It was a short trek and they explained the rules to us on the way; no flash photography before the mother turtle has started laying, don't startle the turtles and don't steal any eggs.

Soon enough large dark bodies emerged from the ocean and let me tell you, I misjudged their sizes. They are HUGE animals! I was very apprehensive but the guides assured us they are harmless animals. We were lucky to see the mother digging her nest and laying her eggs. In addition to hatchlings running to the ocean (so cute, the guides allowed us to pick them up, they was real strong for babies though, wriggling out of my hands). 

  Photo by: Seattlestravels

I've been to this particular beach only once before, roughly 8 years ago. Let me tell you, it has been one of the experiences that has remained with me throughout my life since.

Trinidad has strict anti-poaching laws against these animals and restrict access to the nesting points unless accompanied by an accredited guide. This is in an effort to preserve the wildlife as the turtles are on the list of endangered animals and while poaching has since been reduced, there are other factors that put these beautiful animals at risk. They include;

  • Polluted beaches
  • Climate change - warmer beaches increases the chance of female hatchlings, which can throw off the gender balance
  • Change in ocean currents that allow the turtles to navigate their way through the ocean is expected occur with increasing climate change


 

Comments

  1. punal9311 June 2017 at 14:51

    Wow ! I have never been to one of these turtle watching excursions. Do you know if there are any scheduled for the rest of the year?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Unknown11 June 2017 at 19:57

      Absolutely, as the season runs up until September. Check out this link to get you started with some trusted organisations

      http://turtlevillagetrust.org/turtle-watching.htm

      Delete

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