A Major Leap for Sea Turtle Conservation: Tracking Loggerheads Across the Mediterranean
ARCHELON is excited to announce a significant step forward in understanding further aspects of the ecology of loggerhead sea turtles in the Mediterranean. Last month our team successfully deployed satellite transmitters to 20 individuals found on the beaches of west and south Peloponnese as well as those of Crete. This activity is part of the “Life MareNatura: Conservation of priority species of marine megafauna in Greece and Italy” project, in which ARCHELON is a partner.
In July 2024, three females and two males were tagged in Kyparissia Bay, while another five turtles were fitted with transmitters on Selinitsa beach in the Lakonikos Bay. Additionally, ten more turtles were tagged in the areas of Chania and Messara Bay of Crete. These turtles, named “Pely”, “Aliki”, “Blue”, “Harriet” and 16 more, have completed their nesting activity for the season and are now en route to their foraging sites in the Mediterraneanare, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and could be considered as ambassadors of their species. The transmitters are expected to provide invaluable data on their movements, behaviors, and habitat preferences in real time.
Led by ARCHELON’s researchers A. Panagopoulou, M. Souroulidis, G. Vrambas, and A. Karaplis, and in collaboration with the experienced scientist Alan F. Rees, our team meticulously attached the satellite transmitters, ensuring minimal disturbance to the turtles. This effort marks a significant step forward in our mission to protect these iconic marine reptiles at sea. The data collected from these 20 turtles will contribute to the understanding of loggerhead sea turtle ecology in the Mediterranean. By identifying crucial habitats and migration routes, we can work to establish effective marine protected areas and safeguard these magnificent creatures for future generations.
We invite you to join us in following this exciting adventure, as the journeys of “Pely”, “Aliki”, and the other tagged turtles will be unfolding during the next months. Stay tuned for updates as we uncover the secrets of these amazing animals.
ARCHELON Launches Comprehensive Study to Protect Sea Turtle Nesting Sites
Urgent Call for Volunteers: Are you looking for a meaningful adventure? Join in to save sea turtle hatchlings!
RECENT NEWS
- OUR NEWS17/12/2025
ARCHELON’s Research: Expanding the Map of Mediterranean Green Turtles
In recent years, some green turtle nests have been recorded in Greece, indicating that the geographical spread of this species’ nesting areas in the Mediterranean is beginning to expand.
- OUR NEWS12/12/2025
The Power Behind Sea Turtle Conservation: Our 2025 Field Leaders
With deep gratitude, we honor all the Field Leaders who contributed to the success of the 2025 Field Projects.
- OUR NEWS10/12/2025
Unprecedented appearance of Leatherback Turtle on a Mediterranean beach
A new scientific record brings to light an extremely rare event for the marine life of the Mediterranean: the first confirmed appearance of an adult Leatherback Turtle (Dermochelys coriacea) attempting to nest in the Mediterranean basin.
- OUR NEWS08/12/2025
Applications Now Open for 2026 ARCHELON Field Leaders Posts!
ARCHELON is pleased to announce that applications are now open for the 2026 Field Leader positions across all nesting projects (applications open until January 31st).
- OUR NEWS05/12/2025
Saving Sea Turtles Together – A Tribute to Volunteers
On Volunteer Day, we take a moment to celebrate all those who came from near and far, put on the blue T-shirt, and embraced this important responsibility.
- OUR NEWS01/12/2025
Laganas Bay, Zakynthos: Successful Loggerhead Reproduction, Ongoing Habitat Problems
On the beaches of the Zakynthos National Marine Park, around 2,155 turtle nests successfully hatched thanks to active protection measures, but human pressures on coastal and marine habitats continue.
- OUR NEWS26/11/2025
A Second Chance: Two Loggerhead Sea Turtles Return to the Sea Thanks to Dedicated Rescues
This summer, two adult loggerhead sea turtles, ‘Aktaia’ and ‘Herbert’, arrived at ARCHELON’s Sea Turtle Rescue Centre needing urgent help after sustaining severe head injuries.
- OUR NEWS11/11/2025
Volunteering Projects 2026: Sea Turtles Need You, the Planet Needs Us!
ARCHELON welcomes volunteers from all over the world and of all ages (over 18) and no prior experience is required! If you speak English, are at least 18 years old, and are in good physical condition, you can do this!
- OUR NEWS10/11/2025
Outstanding Recognition for ARCHELON at the Effective Dialogue Conference 2025
On Thursday, November 6, 2025, ARCHELON received an honorary distinction for its substantial contribution to effective dialogue on sustainability, social responsibility, and the environment
- OUR NEWS06/11/2025
6th Year of Online Tours: The sea turtles are traveling across Greece once again!
Students from every corner of the country, as well as from international schools, have the opportunity to learn up close about the lives of the turtles cared for at the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre in Glyfada, Attica, and to discover how rescue efforts impact the marine world.
- OUR NEWS31/10/2025
The lecture turned into reality: A real turtle rescue for the students from Kallithea!
The students spotted a sea turtle floating in the water right after their educational tour of the ARCHELON Rescue Centre and immediately notified the rescuers.
- OUR NEWS24/10/2025
LIFE MareNatura Documentary Premier
From seabird monitoring and genetic sampling, to unique underwater footage of marine mammals, the testimonies of scientists bring to life the hidden stories of the sea.
- OUR NEWS23/10/2025
ARCHELON participates in the "Science Festival 2025 – The Voice of the Ocean"
The French Institute of Greece is organizing a celebration from 10 to 27 November 2025 dedicated to science and the ocean! World premiere of the LIFE MareNatura documentary on November 13th.
- OUR NEWS22/10/2025
Kyparissia Bay: ARCHELON Records 6,100 Nests and Calls on the State to Immediately Implement the National Action Plan for the Loggerhead
In 2025 approximately 6,100 nests were recorded, marking a 74% increase compared to the average of the previous 12 years!
- OUR NEWS10/10/2025
We bid farewell to a devoted environmentalist and friend, Yiannis Roussopoulos.