Become a Guardian of the Night: Volunteer with ARCHELON
Imagine a serene night on a secluded Greek beach. The only sound is the gentle lapping of waves. As darkness falls, a remarkable spectacle unfolds: a loggerhead sea turtle emerges from the ocean, embarking on a journey to find the perfect nesting spot. This ancient creature, facing numerous threats, relies on our help to continue its life cycle.
At ARCHELON, we're committed to protecting loggerhead sea turtles and preserving their nesting habitats in Greece. Our dedicated volunteers play a vital role in this mission. On some select beaches, volunteer duties also include night patrols. During the hours when the presence of people on the nesting beaches is prohibited so as not to disturb the turtles, our trained volunteers start their shift, equipped with measuring instruments, research notebooks and red flashlights.
When they meet a turtle, they keep their distance so as not to scare it and wait patiently in silence until it digs the sand and begins the nesting process. Once they are sure that the nest has been opened, it is their opportunity to respectfully approach the mother turtle who is laying her eggs. The red light of their flashlights - unlike the white light - does not bother her. It's the first time they come so close to the animal that they have been working to protect all summer!
With quick but discreet movements, the volunteers must quickly make their scientific measurements and tag the turtle following strict international protocols. ARCHELON has been tagging turtles for 40 years, helping to identify animals and monitor population movements.
Once the egg-laying is over, the mother turtle will cover her eggs with sand and return to the water. The volunteers will mark the nest and leave beautiful messages for the morning patrol team that will start their shift in a few hours…
As a volunteer, you will become part of a team that monitors the nesting population of Loggerhead sea turtles, collects valuable data and ensures the protection of these animals, while also having the unique privilege of witnessing these special moments. Watching a sea turtle nest is a truly moving experience. Under the starry sky, you will connect with nature and contribute to the conservation of a species that has roamed the oceans for millions of years. During the day, you will inform visitors about sea turtles and the threats they face, and give presentations in hotels. Your efforts will help protect the future of the Loggerhead sea turtle in the Mediterranean.
Ready to make a difference?
Join ARCHELON's international volunteer projects today! Together, we can ensure that these majestic creatures continue to thrive for generations to come.
150 satellite tags for the protection of sea turtles
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