Marine turtles show unexpected nesting activity in French West Indies

Marine turtle nesting activity in Guadeloupe, Martinique, and Saint-Martin has reached levels that are surprising even scientific experts this season. Monitoring teams are observing a high level of activity, particularly regarding nesting patterns on various coastlines.

In Martinique, organizations such as Asso-Mer and the Office national des forêts, supported by local associations, coordinate monitoring efforts across 72 high-priority beaches. These sites are selected due to the concentration of human activity that may impact survival rates. Between 100 and 150 volunteers patrol these areas daily to track reproductive populations and identify sensitive zones.

Data collection has been ongoing in Guadeloupe since 1999 and in Martinique since 2004. This long-term continuity allows researchers to detect trends in population stability or decline. Recent observations at sites like Fond Bellemare in Case-Pilote have highlighted unusual nesting traces, contributing to the unexpected intensity of the current season.