The «different» project for sea turtles in Amvrakikos Gulf
Amvrakikos Gulf is a closed marine area in Western Greece, which communicates with the Ionian Sea through the Strait of Preveza. It is an area with great ecological importance which has been designated a "National Wetland Park", with 290 bird species having been recorded, of which 220 are seen every year. Although sea turtle nesting activity has never been observed in Amvrakikos, ARCHELON has been active there for the past 20 years in a different way than in other projects.
Once more, the ARCHELON Project in Amvrakikos Gulf has been completed. ‘We sincerely thank the volunteers and the Monitoring Coordinator, Leo Cormary, for their time and dedication, which ultimately contributed to a very successful season’, says Galini. This summer was special for everyone as it was marked by a very significant moment. Galini excitedly explains: ‘For the first time in so many years, the field team managed to capture an adult Green Turtle’! The Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas) is a lesser known species of sea turtles that swims in Greek waters. Unlike the Loggerhead, it does not visit the Greek coasts to nest but it is found feeding in various locations.
If you are interested in participating in the Amvrakikos project in the summer of 2023, see more information and apply here. You can also download the brochure with information about all the 2023 projects here.
Looking for a unique family experience for the holiday season or the weekends? Come visit ARCHELON’s Rescue Centre in Glyfada
Sea turtles and tourists in Chania: conservation in action
RECENT NEWS
- 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.
- OUR NEWS02/10/2025
Jane Goodall’s words still warm our hearts
Thank you, Dr. Goodall, for all that you have taught us and for the life example you have left behind.
- OUR NEWS29/09/2025
Turtles, Dolphins, and Birds: Local Communities and Scientists come together for the future of Amvrakikos Gulf
A one-day conference held on Wednesday, September 24, in Menidi, Amfilochia, united the voice of the local community with leading scientists and environmental organizations for Amvrakikos Gulf.
- OUR NEWS26/09/2025
Biologists from the 'LIFE ADAPTS' project send their message to the community
- OUR NEWS23/09/2025
Aquila Rithymna Beach Hotel becomes an Advocate for ARCHELON in Rethymno
The hotel's generous donation directly supports the costs of conservation activities during the 2025 and 2026 nesting seasons.
- OUR NEWS19/09/2025
A Season of Success for the Amvrakikos Project
The 2025 field season for ARCHELON's Amvrakikos project has officially come to a close!
- OUR NEWS12/09/2025
Τhe first green sea turtle nest has hatched in Naxos island!
The emergence of a nest on Naxos is a sign that the geographical range of this threatened species in the Mediterranean may be expanding.
- OUR NEWS09/09/2025
School Tours at ARCHELON: Reserve Your Spot from September 11
The magical world of sea turtles and the people who are taking care of them is waiting, offering you a unique experience and valuable knowledge.
- OUR NEWS05/09/2025
The first report of 2025 delivered from Romanos Beach, Messinia
From mid-May to early September 2025, the project recorded about 80 nests along the 2.7 km stretch of Romanos beach.
- OUR NEWS29/08/2025
Turtle Run in Chania: Lace up your running shoes and get ready!
September 7th, Chania: Join the event and support the protection of one of the most iconic marine species in the Mediterranean.
- OUR NEWS27/08/2025
Citizens Help us Map Sea Turtle Sporadic Nesting in the Ionian Sea
This study is particularly important as it highlights the power of citizen science. Public eyes on beaches, outreach through online platforms and new reporting tools are expanding our understanding of turtle nesting beyond the beaches we monitor.
- OUR NEWS20/08/2025
A nesting turtle brings hope amidst a night of fire
After a 12-hour period filled with fear and uncertainty, the family witnessed a miracle of nature. “It brought us peace and reminded us of what is important”.
- OUR NEWS14/08/2025
ARCHELON’s Life-Saving Chain with the Support of the Green Fund
Thanks to persistence, medication, daily care, and a great deal of patience, “Snowball” gradually moved from a critical state to full recovery.