Üsküdar University Students Join Sea Turtle Conservation Project in Anamur, Turkey

Üsküdar University’s Dr. Doğukan Mutlu and molecular biology students Ender Ünver and Yasin Şalcı are taking part in a sea‑turtle protection program on the beaches of Anamur, Mersin Province, one of the Mediterranean’s key nesting sites. The effort, supported by Turkey’s Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry and coordinated by Dr. Doğan Sözbilen of Pamukkale University, involves monitoring of endangered Caretta caretta, Chelonia mydas and Trionyx triunguis turtles.

Students assist in locating nests, installing protective cages, recording scientific data and observing hatchlings. Field work is overseen by Hacettepe University biologist Adem Karataş, who also facilitates outreach to local residents and tourists. The project aims to both safeguard turtle populations and provide practical field experience for university students.