Moorea is renowned for its thriving sea turtle population. The island's commitment to these ancient mariners is exemplified by the Sea Turtles Care Center, established in February 2004 as a part of the broader sea turtle protection program in French Polynesia. This initiative underscores a vital truth: despite being a protected species, sea turtles face the threat of extinction globally, and their fate in French Polynesia hangs in a delicate balance.
The care center has provided refuge to over 400 sea turtles since its inception. It has been particularly crucial for the young, rescuing 150 hatchlings found struggling at the bottom of nests, nurturing them through their most vulnerable stage. Impressively, more than 190 turtles have been rehabilitated and released back into the wild, a testament to the center's success and the island's conservation efforts.
Turtle species in Moorea Moorea is home to two species of sea turtles: the green sea turtle and the hawksbill turtle, both of which breed on the island, ensuring a continued lineage. The green sea turtle, the largest hard-shelled sea turtle, boasts an average weight of 150kg and a length of 120cm. Their herbivorous diet, consisting mainly of seagrass and algae, imparts a greenish hue to their cartilage and fat, from which their name derives.
Hawksbill turtles, on the other hand, are easily recognized by their narrow, pointed beaks and the distinctive pattern of overlapping scales on their shells, creating a serrated appearance at the edges. Smaller than their green counterparts, hawksbills average 60kg in weight and 80cm in length.
The presence of these turtles in Moorea's waters offers snorkelers and divers frequent opportunities for encounters with these serene creatures. Observing them glide through the water, one is reminded of the ancient lineage of sea turtles, which have navigated the world's oceans for millions of years. The survival of each turtle is a victory for conservation, contributing to the health and diversity of marine ecosystems.
The role of turtles in the Moorea ecosystem Sea turtles play a critical role in their habitats. Green sea turtles maintain the seagrass beds, which are essential for the health of the oceans, acting as breeding and developmental grounds for numerous marine animals. Hawksbill turtles contribute to the health of coral reefs by removing prey such as sponges from the reef's surface, allowing other marine life to inhabit the space.
For those who visit the island, the sight of a sea turtle is a poignant reminder of the fragility of marine life and the importance of conservation. These encounters are more than just a moment of wonder; they are an invitation to become stewards of the environment, to ensure that the oceans remain a sanctuary for turtles and all marine life.
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