WILLEMSTAD – Some sea turtle populations in the Caribbean Netherlands are showing signs of recovery thanks to years of protection and monitoring, but the animals remain vulnerable due to ongoing threats such as coastal development, light pollution, loss of seagrass beds, and chemical contamination. This is according to the State of Nature Caribbean Netherlands report, as reported by Nature Today. 

Green Sea Turtle Nests Increasing on Bonaire 

Particularly on Bonaire, the number of green sea turtle nests is increasing, but on Sint Eustatius and Saba, the numbers for certain species, such as the leatherback turtle, remain stable or are declining. 

The waters around Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius are important foraging areas for sea turtles. However, sea turtles travel long distances between their breeding and feeding grounds. Therefore, international cooperation is crucial, as protection on a single island is not enough, researchers and conservationists stress. 

Recommendations for Improved Protection 

The report recommends better protection of habitats, strengthening structural monitoring on all islands, increasing awareness among residents and tourists, and creating a new Sea Turtle Recovery Action Plan within the Kingdom. These efforts are essential for ensuring the long-term survival of these endangered species in the Caribbean Netherlands.