Turkey's endangered turtles confront habitat loss and human threats

Researchers with the Ecological Research Association (EKAD) have identified new nesting sites for the critically endangered Nile turtle (Trionyx triunguis) in Antalya's rivers. Coordinator Fatih Polat reported that the species, which can tolerate saltwater and dive to about 55 metres, has a population estimated at under 1,000 in Turkey, though recent fieldwork suggests higher numbers in several Antalya streams. The greatest threats are intense coastal development, concrete river channels, fishing hooks that can entangle turtles, and tourists who feed them by hand.

At the same time, the world’s largest Mediterranean sea‑turtle nesting beach at Belek, near Antalya, is witnessing the emergence of hundreds of Caretta caretta hatchlings. The 32‑year protection project, led by EKAD President Dr Ali Fuat Canbolat and supported by Turkish ministries and local tourism investors, has already released more than 1.5 million sea‑turtle hatchlings into the sea. In the current season, roughly 100 nests have hatched, delivering an estimated 4‑5 thousand new turtles. The project continues to monitor both adult nesting and hatchling release through July and into September.