Sea Turtles Surprise us: if you see tracks on the beach, help ARCHELON's research!
Every summer, we cover almost 100 km of beach with our organized action, recording and protecting Loggerhead nests. But we cannot be everywhere! See the activity areas and if you see turtle tracks on any other beach, please report it.
What is sporadic nesting?
Most sea turtles return to lay their eggs on the beaches where they were born. However, there are some females that, during their travels, make nests on shores that are unknown to us. These "sporadic nests" can appear anywhere in Greece, and we need your help to record them! "These nests are found on beaches where significant nesting is not observed every year," says Panagiota Theodorou, ARCHELON's Legal and Statutory Issues Coordinator, who coordinates the recording with Aliki Panagopoulou, Research Coordinator.
Why is sporadic nesting important?
Each nest represents an opportunity for the long-term conservation of sea turtles and the good health of the marine ecosystem. Reporting and recording sporadic nests collects valuable data for studying and understanding this phenomenon.
- Studying the occurrence of sporadic nesting sheds light on the movement patterns of sea turtles. This data is used for the study of sea turtle populations.
- Knowing the location of the nests allows to implement nest protection and the improvement of nest management strategies.
- Raising public awareness about sporadic nesting encourages all citizens who care about nature and the environment to be observant and contribute to the protection of wildlife by reporting tracks, hatchlings and potential nests.
How can you help?
- Do not disturb the nest: Leave it exactly as you found it.
- Note the location: Use landmarks or GPS coordinates to locate the nest.
- Report the nest to ARCHELON: Fill out the new online Sporadic Nest Recording Form here. This user-friendly platform allows you to quickly submit information about the nest location, date and any observations you may have.
You can find the Sporadic Nest Registration Form [here]https://archelon.gr/en/sporadic-nesting)
Let's all help protect the sea, the beaches and the sea turtles!
Ecotourism in Peloponnese and Crete: Explore a Loggerhead sea turtle nesting beach
ATTENTION! Sea turtles are not pets: Do not touch them or feed them!
RECENT NEWS
- OUR NEWS18/05/2026
The nesting season has started in Greece: The first sea turtle nests for 2026 are spotted!
The first nests of the loggerhead sea turtle for 2026 have been found in Kyparissia Bay and in Zakynthos.
- OUR NEWS07/05/2026
ARCHELON’s Sea Turtle Tours presented in a Japanese Seminar for Sustainable Tourism
ur Sea Turtle Tours recently featured as a highlight in the Sustainable Tourism International Talk Sessions, organized by the Japan Alliance of Responsible Travel Agencies.
- OUR NEWS04/05/2026
Kids Turtle Festival 2026 "In Deep Water"
The ARCHELON Sea Turtle Rescue Centre opens its doors on World Turtle Day, May 23, and invites young and old to this year’s Kids Turtle Festival 2026 “In Deep Water”.
- OUR NEWS30/04/2026
Sea Turtle Beach Walk in Crete: A unique eco-tourism experience
The Sea Turtle Beach Walk is an organized activity that allows participants to get to know the natural environment of the sea turtle nesting site up close. Book your place now!
- OUR NEWS18/04/2026
How a sea turtle illuminated the unknown paths of the Aegean
Helen Jane was not just another dead sea turtle found on the Greek coastline. For ARCHELON researchers, she was a living beacon of information
- OUR NEWS17/04/2026
Is it Really 1 in 1,000? New Science Challenges the Iconic Sea Turtle Statistic
For decades, one quote has defined the struggle of sea turtle conservation: 1 in 1,000. This statistical information suggests that for every thousand hatchlings that enter the sea, only one will survive the long journey to adulthood.
- OUR NEWS10/04/2026
ARCHELON takes part in Chania's “Move It Now” initiative
Through educational activities, games and discussions, students had the opportunity to understand that every "green" choice in our daily lives is a direct help to the environment.
- OUR NEWS09/04/2026
Coming together for sustainable tourism in Chania
Looking towards the upcoming nesting season, the tourism community of Chania gathered at the city’s Town Hall.
- OUR NEWS08/04/2026
The Return of the “Giant”: Everest Swims Again in Greek Seas After Two Years of Rehabilitation
The story of 'Everest' began in May 2024 in Preveza, when the sea turtle was found with a severe, intentional head injury. Upon arrival at the Rescue Centre, its condition was critical: malnourished, weighing just 81 kg, and suffering from serious buoyancy problems that made survival in the sea impossible.
- OUR NEWS07/04/2026
Through the dust: Rethymno looks for a sustainable future with the sea turtles
Neither the African dust nor the sandstorm of last Wednesday stood in the way of ARCHELON's event at the Rethymno City Hall!
- OUR NEWS02/04/2026
Volunteering Has Never Been More Attractive: Special offers for 2026
ARCHELON invites you to join its field projects and actively protect sea turtles and their habitats.
- OUR NEWS09/03/2026
The Annual General Assembly of the Association
ARCHELON's Members were invited to attend the Annual General Assembly on Saturday, February 28 at the Sea Turtle Rescue Centre.
- OUR NEWS03/03/2026
Join us for the Online Presentation of 2025 Results!
On Monday, March 23rd, we have the chance to meet again online and share what we accomplished together in the past year.
- OUR NEWS03/03/2026
A Digital Adventure for Your Class with ARCHELON
Through a live connection with the Centre, students learn about the turtles’ rescue stories and discover how everyday human activities can negatively impact marine ecosystems.
- OUR NEWS24/02/2026
32 Years Returning to Nest: A Record Reproductive Lifespan for the Loggerhead Sea Turtle in Kyparissia Bay
When we analyzed the turtles’ codes, we realized that this was a turtle that had been tagged for the first time in the area 32 years ago! Specifically, turtle P4849 was tagged on July 7, 1993 and today is the turtle with the longest documented reproductive lifespan in Kyparissia Bay!