Hatcheries
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These
are used in an attempt to relocate eggs in research areas
to better protect them directly following their burial. They
are kept from predators, both wild animals and humans. Under
ideal circumstances researchers have properly prepared natural
settings. They apply scientific research into their programs
to ensure turtle vitality. Unfortunately, hatcheries are notorious
for disaster. Unregulated water, sanitation, temperature,
location, and purpose have led to higher mortality rates than
if left alone in the wild. This measure should only be taken
as a last resort. Extreme cases have included hatchlings of
entirely females (due to lack of temperature regulations),
and tourist stimulated hatcheries that only operate during
tourist seasons. |
For a complete guide on hatcheries:
http://www.seaturtle.org/documents/hatchery_manual.pdf
Link
to the Sri Lankan hatchery disaster produced for tourists.
http://www.seaturtle.org/mtn/archives/mtn60/mtn60p19.shtml
Head
Starting
This
process renders turtle hatchlings until an age that the researchers
feel they are ready to enter the wild. This is thought to strengthen
them allowing them to better protect themselves in the tumultuous
sea they are about to venture. Studies have proven that this may
damage their innate reasoning, confuse their internal mapping, and
possibly even be more detrimental then leaving them alone.
Major
research was carried out in the Cayman Islands particularly dealing
with the Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle. For more information: http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/pr/pdfs/recovery/turtle_kempsridley.pdf
This
is the innovative approach of the modern world. Through highly
advanced technology, small tracking devices are attached to
the turtle’s carapace allowing scientists to track by
satellite the direct location of each turtle. Every time one
breaks the surface for air, a transmission of its direct location
is recorded. In turn this provides an in-depth monitor of
migration, feeding, and nesting patterns.
For a detailed look at Satellite Telemetry:
http://www.seaturtle.org/tracking/faq.shtml
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Nest Protection
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Rather
than removing eggs from their natural depository like in hatcheries
and head start programs, this goals to protect the nest. Wiring
or cages are designed to surround the nest in attempt to protect
eggs from wild predators. This is an efficient method, for
it does not disturb the eggs, while at the same time protecting
them. In some instances metals may conduct heat disrupting
the natural temperature eggs need to develop properly. While
this method is successful against animals, it is useless against
human predators. |
Cloning
The newest, but far-fetched, approach of cloning
sea turtles was reported to commence in 2010. This research hopes
to re-build the dissipated population through scientific interjection.
Although previous attempts at cloning other animal species lead
to less than natural results, further research will continue to
manipulate developments.
Visit this link to find out more on the fascinating Malaysian goal
of cloning Leatherback Turtles
http://uk.reuters.com/article/scienceNews/idUKKLR23718120070712
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leatherback_Sea_Turtle#Country-specific_conservation_initiatives
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