In Sekania the first loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings in the National Marine Park of Zakynthos this year
The Management Agency of the National Marine Park of Zakynthos and ARCHELON- The Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece are excited to announce that the first hatched nest for this year was found last Sunday in Sekania beach, an area which is characterised as ‘Strict Nature Protection Area’ of the Marine Park. This signals the start of the hatching season for 2018 and with more than 1300 nests laid in the nesting beaches of the Park only in Laganas bay we are looking forward to many more hatchling to reach the Mediterranean.
After their exit from the nest, usually during the night, hatchlings find their way to the sea following the reflection of moonlight on the water. If there are artificial lights in the back of the beach, however, hatchlings get disorientated and eventually die from dehydration. In such places, ARCHELON volunteers place shades near the nests before they hatch. This shading is made out of bamboo beach mats and helps the hatchlings reach the sea.
However, it should be mentioned that there are a lot of dangers out there in the coastal and marine environment for the tiny hatchlings, as they fall prey to other marine organisms (e.g. fishes, marine birds). It is estimated that only 1 in 1000 hatchlings will make it to adulthood (which is estimated to happen in the age of almost 20 years).
In case you are lucky and see hatchlings on the beach during the day, the only way you can help them is by removing the hot sand from in front of them as well as shading them. It’s of extreme importance not to put sea water on them, as it will confuse them and they will think they have reached the sea. Also, do not attempt to touch or lift them, as their walk to the sea is crucial not only for their survival in their first long journey, but it is also important for them to track the abiotic characteristics of the nesting beach so they can return here (repatriation or return migration), as adults, to make their own nests.
Information:
National Marine Park of Zakynthos: http://www.nmp-zak.org/
ARCHELON, The Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece: www.archelon.gr
Zakynthos, 20/07/2018
Dim the lights for baby turtles
Joanne, whatʼs new at the Rescue Center (May and June 2018)?
RECENT NEWS
- OUR NEWS14/10/2026
The examinations behind every diagnosis: A vital step in sea turtle rehabilitation
This is where diagnostic examinations play a crucial role. X-rays are an invaluable tool for our rehabilitation team, both upon admission and throughout the recovery process, helping us determine the appropriate treatment and monitor each turtle’s progress.
- OUR NEWS09/10/2026
“Guardians of our ancient sea”: The 8th Mediterranean Conference on Marine Turtles takes place in Greece
The conference is expected to host 240 delegates from 20 Mediterranean countries, including leading researchers and scientists, as well as representatives from protected area management bodies and environmental organizations.
- OUR NEWS06/10/2026
A Wildlife Weekend at the Museum
On the weekend of October 3rd and 4th, ARCHELON participated in the "Wild Weekend", a two-day celebration dedicated to wildlife at the Goulandris Natural History Museum.
- OUR NEWS01/10/2026
October for sea turtles: Help us care for our sea turtle patients this winter
This October, we are launching a fundraising campaign with one clear goal: to raise €5,000 to support the care of our sea turtle patients through the end of 2026.
- OUR NEWS25/09/2026
Together for Crete’s nesting beaches: "Turtle-Friendly Hotel" award ceremonies in Chania and Rethymno
ARCHELON hosted the award ceremonies for the new Turtle-Friendly Hotel certification, as part of the TUI Turtle Aid Greece program in Crete.
- OUR NEWS23/09/2026
We bade farewell to Omiros, the blind sea turtle that traveled from Greece to Cornwall
In September 2026 Omiros, a male Loggerhead sea turtle with a remarkable story, passed away. He had spent the last 16 years of his life at the Blue Reef Aquarium in Cornwall, having traveled there from Greece.
- OUR NEWS10/09/2026
Sea turtles kept in a restaurant tank in Chania: True love for nature begins with respect.
We all feel a sense of excitement when we encounter a wild animal up close. It is only natural to want to connect with nature, observe it and understand it better.
- OUR NEWS09/09/2026
Schools are back at ARCHELON! A new year full of learning and action
The new school year is beginning, and with it, the voices, questions, and excitement of thousands of students return to ARCHELON’s Sea Turtle Rescue Centre.
- OUR NEWS06/09/2026
Sea Turtle Hatchlings Captivated All Ages in Corfu
- OUR NEWS01/09/2026
Taking time off work to volunteer for the sea turtles in Greece: Amy’s month with ARCHELON in southern Peloponnese
When Amy Carey was 10 years old, she came face to face with a sea turtle while on holiday in Greece. Decades later, at 47, she decided it was time to turn that childhood memory into reality.
- OUR NEWS13/08/2026
Hatchlings need help in September and October: Special volunteer offer for 2 weeks!
In order to protect the nests and the last hatchlings of this year, we need the help of more volunteers!
- OUR NEWS10/08/2026
One beach party canceled, 66 nests saved in Chania!
A significant victory for the protection of sea turtles in Chania, thanks to the direct cooperation of ARCHELON and NECCA.
- OUR NEWS07/08/2026
Sea turtles of the Saronic Gulf: Why feeding them is not an act of love
The Municipality of Saronikos and ARCHELON are campaigning for the safe and proper coexistence of bathers and wildlife.
- OUR NEWS05/08/2026
Greek fishermen release rare Leatherback Turtle in the North Aegean!
In mid-July, we received a video of an impressive sea turtle that had been caught in the nets of a fishing boat.
- OUR NEWS30/07/2026
Join our Sea Turtle Nest Excavations in Peloponnese and Crete
ARCHELON invites you to a unique experience of environmental education and scientific observation!