Demre’s Caretta Carettas: Their Fascinating Journey and Conservation

The loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta), the ancient mariners of the Mediterranean, silently return to the golden beaches of Demre every summer to begin a new cycle of life. After traveling thousands of kilometers, these turtles come back to the very shores where they were born, attracting the attention of both scientists and curious travelers. But what is the biology of the Caretta caretta nesting in Demre? What challenges do they face throughout their life cycle, and what routes do they take? Which beaches in and around Demre serve as their nesting grounds, and why is this region so crucial for them? How do human activities—tourism, plastic pollution, and climate change—affect these delicate creatures? And what conservation efforts are in place to protect them? As responsible travelers, what should we be mindful of?

Let’s dive into the world of Demre’s Caretta carettas and explore the answers to these questions together.

Biology and Life Cycle of Caretta Caretta

The loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) is one of the world’s largest hard-shelled sea turtle species, having existed for approximately 100 million years. Adult loggerheads typically measure between 70-95 cm in length and weigh between 80-200 kg, though some exceptional individuals can exceed 500 kg. They are known for their large heads and powerful jaws, which allow them to easily crush hard-shelled prey such as sea urchins, crabs, and mollusks. These turtles reach sexual maturity between the ages of 12 and 30 and can live for 70 years or more. This means that the females laying eggs on the beaches of Demre today may be the very hatchlings that emerged from the same sands decades ago.

The life cycle of Caretta caretta is a fascinating journey between land and sea. Female turtles typically reproduce every 2-3 years, creating an average of three nests per breeding season. Before mating, males and females migrate from the open sea to breeding areas. Mating usually occurs in shallow waters near nesting beaches. Afterward, females come ashore at night, digging a nest about 40-60 cm deep in the sand, where they lay an average of 100 eggs. A single female may create multiple nests (usually 3-4) in one season, laying several hundred eggs in total. The eggs incubate in the sand for about two months, during which temperature plays a critical role in determining the sex of the hatchlings: cooler sand produces mostly males, while warmer sand results in more females. For instance, if the temperature exceeds 30°C, most hatchlings will be female, whereas below 27°C, they will mostly be male. Extreme temperatures—below 26°C or above 34°C—can be fatal to the embryos. This natural mechanism also brings the risk of imbalanced sex ratios due to climate change.

Once the hatchlings emerge, they instinctively follow the moonlight and horizon’s glow toward the sea. This crucial journey, often occurring at night or during twilight, is their first and most dangerous challenge. These tiny turtles, just a few centimeters long, are easy prey for predators such as birds, crabs, and even ants before they reach the water. However, even in the ocean, their struggle is not over, as fish and other marine predators await them. Scientists estimate that only one in several hundred (or even thousand) hatchlings survives to adulthood. This means that out of the hundreds of eggs a female lays, perhaps only one will return to the same beach 20-30 years later to nest. This extremely low survival rate explains why Caretta caretta is considered a vulnerable species.

The hatchlings that successfully reach the sea spend the first 5-10 years of their lives in the open ocean. This period, known as the “lost years,” remains largely mysterious, as the young turtles drift along ocean currents, often hiding in floating Sargassum seaweed beds, making them difficult to observe. Once they have grown sufficiently, they return to coastal waters, where they continue to feed and mature. Juvenile and adult loggerheads inhabit continental shelf regions such as the Mediterranean, where they find food and develop until reaching reproductive age. When the time comes, an adult female will navigate back to the very beach where she once hatched—a journey that may span hundreds or even thousands of kilometers, depending on where she has traveled to feed over the years.

Satellite tracking studies have revealed that adult Caretta caretta turtles migrate vast distances between feeding and nesting areas, often covering hundreds or thousands of kilometers. For example, a turtle feeding off the coast of Libya in the Mediterranean may travel to Turkey to nest. This extraordinary navigation ability and strong site fidelity are among the most fascinating characteristics of sea turtles.

Nesting Areas in and Around Demre

Turkey is one of the most important sanctuaries for sea turtles in the Mediterranean. Along its Mediterranean coastline, 22 nesting beaches have been identified, including well-known locations such as Dalyan-İztuzu, Patara, and Çıralı. Among these vital nesting grounds, the district of Demre in Antalya also plays a crucial role.

Demre’s coastline spans approximately 9.2 km and has been officially designated as a “Sea Turtle Nesting Area.” This coastal stretch is divided into three main regions: Beymelek Lagoon Beach, Suluklu Beach, and Tasdibi Beach. Loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) lay their eggs in the sandy dunes of these three sections. A recent scientific monitoring study reported that during the 2020 nesting season, a total of 114 Caretta caretta nests were recorded along the beaches of Demre. This equates to approximately 12.4 nests per kilometer. The study also highlighted that the highest nest density was observed around Beymelek Lagoon, accounting for approximately 43% of the total nests. Although Demre’s beaches may not have the same nesting numbers as some more famous turtle habitats, these figures underscore the critical importance of the area for regional sea turtle populations.

The nearby district of Finike, located just west of Demre, is another significant nesting site for loggerhead turtles. Finike’s coastline extends approximately 21 km and has been recorded to host over 300 loggerhead nests in a good season. Occasionally, the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas)—a rarer species in the region—has also been observed nesting in the Finike-Demre area, with about 5-7 green turtle nests per season. This highlights the fact that the beaches of Demre and its surroundings are not only essential for Turkey but also play a significant role in sustaining sea turtle populations across the Mediterranean.

There are several reasons why Demre’s beaches are favored by sea turtles. First, the sand composition and beach slope provide an ideal environment for loggerheads to dig their nests. Additionally, the region remains largely undeveloped, with long stretches of natural coastline where turtles can find relatively quiet and dark nesting sites. It is important to remember that female turtles prefer beaches with minimal human activity, darkness, and silence for laying their eggs. If a beach is overly bright, noisy, or obstructed by human-made barriers, the turtles may return to the sea without nesting or lay their eggs in a less suitable location. This is why preserving natural habitats like those in Demre is crucial to ensuring that these ancient mariners can continue their reproductive cycles, as they have for thousands of years.

Human Impact: Threats and Challenges

Unfortunately, the ancient cycle of Caretta caretta is increasingly threatened by human activities. Tourism, plastic pollution, and climate change are among the major human-induced factors making survival more difficult for sea turtles in Demre and other nesting areas.

Tourism and Coastal Development

During the summer months, the Mediterranean beaches experience intense tourist activity. Artificial lights at night—such as hotel lights, street lamps, campfires, and beach parties—can deter nesting females from coming ashore to lay eggs. Even more critically, hatchlings that rely on the natural glow of the sea to find their way can become disoriented by artificial lights, mistakenly crawling toward hotels and restaurants, where they often perish. Research shows that artificial lighting near beaches disrupts nesting behavior in females and confuses hatchlings, preventing them from reaching the ocean safely.

For example, if a beachfront hotel is brightly lit, hatchlings may crawl in the wrong direction—toward the hotel instead of the sea—where they may die from dehydration under the morning sun or fall prey to predators. In addition to lighting, daytime beach activities also pose a threat: sun loungers, umbrellas, off-road vehicles (ATVs), and people unknowingly trampling on nests can cause significant damage. Even deep holes dug in the sand for fun can trap hatchlings, preventing them from reaching the sea. Additionally, loud beach parties, high-volume music, and crowded events in nesting areas can increase stress and harm these vulnerable creatures.

Plastic Pollution and Marine Debris

Plastic pollution has become one of the biggest threats to sea turtles today. The Mediterranean, unfortunately, has one of the highest concentrations of plastic particles per square kilometer in the world. Loggerhead turtles frequently mistake floating plastic bags and debris for jellyfish, a primary food source. Studies estimate that over 50% of sea turtles worldwide have plastic in their stomachs. Ingesting plastic can lead to intestinal blockages, internal injuries, and starvation, ultimately resulting in death.

Additionally, discarded fishing lines and “ghost nets” are serious hazards. Turtles often become entangled in these abandoned fishing nets, leading to drowning, severe injuries, or the loss of limbs. Young and juvenile turtles are especially vulnerable, as they may mistake microplastics floating on the water’s surface for food, leading to malnutrition and weakness. These factors significantly reduce the survival chances of sea turtles in the wild.

The Effects of Climate Change

Rising global temperatures and changing climate conditions threaten both the nesting environment and the gender balance of Caretta caretta hatchlings. As mentioned earlier, the sex of hatchlings is determined by sand temperature during incubation. With global warming causing higher sand temperatures, an increasing percentage of hatchlings may be born female.

At first glance, a population dominated by females may not seem problematic, but in the long term, a shortage of males could severely impact reproductive success. In some areas, persistent high temperatures could make it difficult to find enough males for mating. Additionally, if temperatures exceed a certain threshold, embryo development may be disrupted, and eggs may never hatch at all.

Another effect of climate change is rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Severe storms and coastal erosion can flood or completely destroy nesting sites, washing away eggs before they have a chance to hatch. For example, a sudden flood during the incubation period could wipe out hundreds of turtle eggs in an instant. Over time, rising sea levels will also reduce the availability of suitable nesting beaches, making it harder for sea turtles to find safe places to lay their eggs.

Considering all these threats, taking conservation measures in nesting areas like Demre is crucial to minimizing human impact. Fortunately, various initiatives are being carried out at both local and national levels to protect these remarkable marine creatures.

Conservation Efforts and Projects in Demre

In Demre and its surroundings, conservation efforts for Caretta caretta are a collaborative effort between government agencies, NGOs, and dedicated volunteers. In Turkey, sea turtle conservation is primarily coordinated by the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks (DKMP) under the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. Each nesting season, DKMP signs agreements with authorized universities and NGOs to conduct monitoring and protection activities on nesting beaches. Demre’s beaches are part of such a project, carried out with official permission from DKMP.

One of the key institutions involved in this project is ÇOMU-DEKUM (Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Sea Turtle Application and Research Center), working alongside LIDOSK (Likya Nature Sports Club), a local civil initiative. Scientists and volunteers patrol the beaches nightly, tracking nesting females, identifying nests, and securing them for protection. Nests are typically safeguarded with protective wire cages and warning signs, preventing accidental damage by humans or predation by foxes, dogs, and other animals.

The Role of Volunteers

Volunteers play a crucial role in conservation efforts in Demre. Alongside national volunteers, international volunteers also travel to the region to participate in sea turtle protection programs. For instance, in the summer of 2021, young volunteers from the European Solidarity Corps assisted in monitoring nests, ensuring hatchlings safely reach the sea, and cleaning the beaches.

Volunteers participate in night patrols to prevent artificial lights from disturbing nesting females, guide hatchlings towards the ocean, and assist injured adult turtles in reaching rehabilitation centers when necessary. Additionally, awareness programs are organized for local schools and communities to promote turtle-friendly behavior.

• Collaboration with fishermen: Fishermen are encouraged to use Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), special apparatuses that help turtles escape fishing nets.
• Engagement with the tourism industry: Hotels and businesses are informed about reducing light pollution, collecting sun loungers at night, and limiting noisy beach activities that might disrupt nesting turtles.

These collective efforts have shown positive results. In recent years, an increase in the number of nests recorded in Demre suggests that conservation initiatives are having a tangible impact.

NGOs and Local Initiatives

NGOs are also actively involved in turtle conservation in Turkey. WWF-Turkey runs national campaigns for sea turtle protection, while local organizations such as the Ecological Research Society (EKAD) conduct long-term monitoring in Belek, Cirali, and other key nesting sites. The Sea Turtle Research, Rescue, and Rehabilitation Center (DEKAMER) provides medical treatment and rehabilitation for injured turtles.

In Demre, the partnership between LIDOSK, universities, and volunteers offers a strong model of conservation. This model combines scientific research with on-the-ground protection and rapid intervention, ensuring effective monitoring 24/7. Demre Municipality and local authorities also support these efforts by providing logistical assistance, organizing beach clean-ups, and distributing awareness materials.

Ultimately, in Demre—one of the most serene coastal areas of ancient Lycia—ongoing conservation efforts aim to create an environment where humans and sea turtles can coexist harmoniously.

Observing Caretta Carettas: Best Times and Responsible Ecotourism

For nature lovers visiting Demre, observing Caretta caretta can be an unforgettable experience. However, it is essential to enjoy this experience responsibly, without harming the turtles.

Loggerhead turtles’ nesting season begins in May and lasts until the end of August. Females typically lay eggs between May and July, while the first hatchlings start emerging around mid-July, continuing until early September. The most exciting moments to observe are the early morning hours, when hatchlings break free from their nests and race toward the sea. If you’re lucky, you might witness dozens of tiny turtles emerging from the sand and making their way to the ocean at sunrise. However, it is crucial not to touch or interfere with the hatchlings—they must find their way independently. If any hatchlings become disoriented, only trained volunteers and experts should guide them gently.

Seeing an adult female laying eggs at night is a rare and special moment. Since turtles prefer quiet and undisturbed beaches, encounters with nesting females usually happen by chance. However, some conservation teams organize guided night walks, allowing visitors to observe the process from a safe distance. If you get such an opportunity, remember:

Use only red-filtered flashlights, as white light disturbs the turtles.

Do not take flash photos—bright lights can cause the turtle to abandon nesting.

Remain silent and avoid sudden movements—any disturbance can scare the turtle back into the sea without laying eggs.

The safest and most educational way to observe Caretta caretta in Demre is by joining morning nest monitoring activities or attending awareness events organized by conservation groups. For example, after hatchlings have emerged, scientists sometimes open nests to count empty eggshells and rescue any trapped hatchlings. These public nest excavations are a great opportunity for visitors, including children, to learn more about sea turtles.

In Cirali (Antalya), volunteers check a Caretta caretta nest while tourists watch attentively. Such guided events provide an unforgettable experience while raising awareness. At night, beach access is restricted to prevent disturbance to the turtles.

Key Guidelines for Responsible Ecotourism

To ensure your visit contributes positively to conservation, follow these guidelines:

1. Avoid entering the beach at night (9:00 PM – 6:00 AM)

These are critical hours when females come ashore to nest and hatchlings emerge. Even a simple walk can leave footprints that obstruct hatchlings or accidentally crush nests.

2. Minimize light pollution

If staying near the beach, close curtains and reduce outdoor lighting.

If using a flashlight, attach a red filter, as red light is less disturbing for turtles.

Never approach the beach with vehicle headlights on.

3. Remove beach furniture at sunset

Sun loungers, umbrellas, and other objects left on the beach can obstruct nesting turtles or cause them to abandon their attempt.

If you dig holes in the sand or build sandcastles, fill them back in before leaving to prevent hatchlings from getting trapped.

4. Leave no trash or plastic behind

Even a single plastic item can be deadly if turtles ingest it.

If possible, pick up any litter you find—every small effort helps.

5. Do not touch or approach turtles

If you see a Caretta caretta while swimming, admire it from a distance.

Do not try to touch, chase, or feed the turtle, as it can cause stress or provoke defensive behavior.

If you spot a turtle during a boat tour, follow the captain’s instructions—boats should turn off their engines and keep a respectful distance.

6. Seek information from local guides and conservation centers

While Demre does not have a dedicated turtle conservation center, you can learn from local volunteers or visit places like DEKAMER in Dalyan or the environmental education center in Cirali.

Online sources and conservation groups also offer valuable insights on how to support sea turtle protection.

Witnessing a Miracle in Demre

Observing Caretta caretta in Demre is witnessing one of nature’s greatest miracles—tiny hatchlings braving the vast sea, only to return decades later to the same beach to continue the cycle. As visitors, we are not just spectators but also guardians of this extraordinary process. Every nest protected today means more turtles returning to the Mediterranean in the future.

Final Words

For thousands of years, the pristine shores of Demre have been intertwined with the journeys of Caretta caretta. Along the legendary Lycian coast, a timeless struggle for survival unfolds each summer. In this blog, we have explored the biology and migration routes of loggerhead turtles, the nesting sites in Demre, the threats they face, and the ongoing conservation efforts. One thing is clear: the fate of these sea turtles is in our hands.

If we act responsibly, respect their habitat, and support conservation efforts, future generations will still be able to witness the incredible sight of baby turtles racing toward the sea in Demre. Thanks to scientific research and the dedication of volunteers, there are promising developments—nest numbers are increasing in many areas, showing that conservation efforts are making a difference.

If you ever find yourself in Demre, after following the traces of ancient Myra and Saint Nicholas, take a moment to watch the sunset by the sea. As the waves gently lap against the shore, remember that these waters are home to remarkable marine travelers. Perhaps you’ll spot a Caretta caretta lifting its head above the surface, as if to greet you. Or maybe you’ll notice tiny tracks in the sand, marking the journey of a hatchling that successfully made it to the sea.

In any case, we are fortunate to be part of this beauty. Protecting sea turtles is not just about saving a single species—it is about preserving the unique biodiversity of the Mediterranean. The turtles of Demre remind us that coexistence with nature is possible. Let’s respect their journey, observe with curiosity, and step up when needed.

Because this world is not just ours—it is their home, too.

References

Altın, A., et al. (2021). Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta) Population Monitoring and Conservation Activities in Demre (Kale), Antalya, Turkey. Marine and Life Sciences, 3(2), 80-86.

DEKAMER (Sea Turtle Research and Rehabilitation Center). Nesting Beaches in Turkey.

NOAA Fisheries. (2021). Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) – Species Profile.

SWOT Report. (2020). Sea Turtles and Plastic Pollution. State of the World’s Sea Turtles.

Bianet News. (June 15, 2020). “Threats to Sea Turtles from Thermal Power Plants.”

News Central Asia. (June 11, 2024). “The Caretta Caretta Season Begins in the Turkish Riviera.”

Duvar English. (July 9, 2024). “Caretta Carettas Return to Antalya Shores as Conservation Efforts Pay Off.”

Widecast Technical Report No.11. (2009). “Reducing Light Pollution in a Tourism-Based Economy.”

Animal Diversity Web. Caretta caretta Species Profile.

WWF & various sources on field observations.