Since the 7th of June 2016, ARCHELON, the Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece, began its actions in Koroni and more specifically on the nesting beach Zaga-Memi. ARCHELON has been working in the area since 1995, by monitoring and protecting the sea turtle nests, and also by informing the habitants and the tourists of the region. This nesting beach is hosting on average 50 nests per year in a total length of 2.7 km.

During the first morning survey on the 7th of June, the first nests of Caretta caretta were identified in Zaga-Memi beach by the volunteers, who applied protective measures around the nest in order to protect it from potential predators (e.g. dogs) and because of its proximity to an area of organised touristic uses (umbrellas, sunbeds). The first nests were four, something that confirms the start of the nesting season earlier on this season for the whole Mediterranean. This is related to the mild winter we had this year as turtles are exothermic animals, meaning that the ambient temperature plays a key role in their activities (eg breeding, nesting).

The idyllic city of Koroni, well known for its amazing architecture, gains additive value when taking into consideration its environmental significance as it hosts one of the main Peloponnese nesting beaches of the protected sea turtle species Caretta caretta. With respect to the huge variety of species that we share this planet with and in trying to minimise the catastrophic effects of many human activities, we actually protect the environment that we and future generations need for living.

We kindly request the support of the Municipality of Pylos Nestor to stand to ARCHELON’s efforts that are highly connected with the awareness of residents and visitors of the area.

For further information you can soon find us in our Information Station at the Port of Koroni or you can call at +00306951009785 (Polymnia Nestoridou: Coordinator of the Peloponnese Program)