Record Number of Sea Turtle Nests Found on British Bases in Cyprus

Experts have reported a record number of sea turtle nests on British military bases in Cyprus. This year, a total of 382 nests were discovered across all sandy beaches—100 more than the previous year.

According to experts, these results reflect the dedicated efforts of the British military base authorities in Cyprus to protect sea turtle nests.

From 1994 to 2011, an average of only 30 turtle nests were found annually on the military base beaches.

The significant increase in nesting is attributed to systematic, non-invasive methods and proactive measures by the authorities to reduce illegal and harmful activities on nesting beaches.

To safeguard the nests, volunteers from the bases patrol the beaches daily, protecting the nests with aluminum cages designed to deter predators such as dogs and foxes.

No additional interventions are made; turtles are allowed to leave their nests independently. The initial emergence of newborn turtles from the nest is crucial for their survival.

Hatchlings need to navigate the sand on their own to imprint the beach's characteristics, which helps them return to the same beach later in life to lay their own eggs.

Additionally, any human interference with the nests is punishable by a fine of up to 17,000 euros or imprisonment for up to three years.