Lepidochelys kempii!

Lepidochelys kempii!

Lepidochelys kempii!

It is very common to see in these hot months of the Mexican Caribbean large turtles, with heads larger than those of the divers themselves, who are surprised by the size of the olive ridley turtle, which can measure almost a meter and weigh an average of 50 kg. In Mexico it is commonly known as Loggerhead, its scientific name is “Lepidochelys kempii”.

And why do we see so many on these dates?

Because they come to spawn on our coasts after copulating with their partners on the high seas. So it is easy to see them on the surface frolicking in pairs. Unfortunately, however, they suffer some interruptions due to the interference or carelessness of some boats.

April to August is the breeding season. And they arrive en masse on the beach to spawn in large groups. They are Atlantic American turtles, and although their main nesting area is the State of Tamaulipas, they can be seen in the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean. They lay about 100 eggs, which take about 60 days to hatch.

Unfortunately, loggerhead turtles are considered Critically Endangered by the IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature), so when you see a loggerhead, wish it a good trip, remember to use less plastic and if you are going to consume seafood, prefer products from artisanal fishing without nets. Your good intentions matter.