Dakar, Senegal – A WWF survey has discovered several marine turtle nesting sites on the beaches of Senegal, prompting calls from conservationists to improve protection of the endangered species.
The article by WWF says that nine new green turtle nests were found on the beaches of Joal-Fadiouth in the Saloum Delta south of the capital of Senegal, Dakar.
Dr Mamadou Diallo, WWF Senegal’s programme manager for species said that the nests confirm that these beaches are important nesting sites and should be protected.
The waters of Senegal are home to other species of turtle including the loggerhead, hawksbill, olive ridley, Kemp’s ridley and leatherback. Past experiences of illegal turtle capture and consumption of turtle meat has raised cause for alarm, but Dr. Diallo says that this has reduced by 80% due to conservation and awareness efforts supported by the public. He also said that by protecting nesting beaches will provide the opportunity to develop sustainable tourism to watch these rare turtles in their natural setting, while assisting conservation efforts.
For more information:
Birima Fall, Communications Manager
WWF West African Marine Ecoregion
E-mail: bfall @ wwfsenegal.org