First leatherback hatchling in thirty years reported in Tulum

57 leatherback sea turtle eggs have hatched, according to the Tulum Department of Natural Resources. The leatherbacks came from a nest that was found on a beach in Tulum in June.

First leatherback nest found in the community in 36 years, according to the Institute of Biodiversity and Protected Natural Areas of the State of Quintana Roo (Ibanqroo) in June. The sea turtle sanctuary in Xcacel-Xcacelito is where the nest was found.

The hatched eggs have been found since that discovery. Since the leatherback is so uncommon in the area, Rocío Peralta, director of Tulum’s Department of Natural Resources, emphasized the significance of a healthy ecosystem.

The program Kanan Aak (turtle keepers in Mayan) began in 2009. This year was the first time they recorded a leatherback turtle since hawksbill, white and loggerhead are the eggs normally found.

“We share great news. For the first time in the Sea Turtle Conservation Program we were able to release 57 leatherback turtles,” she said.