Between the Atolls: Sea Turtle Nesting in the Maldives from 2018 to 2024.

Area of Science:

• Marine Biology
• Conservation Science
• Ecology

Background:

• Sea turtles are crucial to the Maldivian marine ecosystem.
• Historically, only hawksbill and green turtles were known to nest in the Maldives.
• This research provides the first comprehensive multi-year dataset on sea turtle nesting activity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compile a multi-year dataset on sea turtle nesting in the Maldives (2018-2024).
• To identify nesting species, distribution, and seasonality.
• To assess threats and inform conservation strategies for Maldivian sea turtles.

Main Methods:

• Combined targeted nest monitoring with citizen science reports.
• Collected data from 2018 to 2024 across Maldivian atolls.
• Analyzed nesting activity, hatching success, and incubation periods.

Main Results:

• Nests were found in nearly all atolls, predominantly green turtles (n=1086), followed by hawksbill (n=47) and olive ridley (n=14).
• Nesting occurs year-round, peaking from June to September (southwest monsoon).
• Median hatching success was 90.91%, with incubation lasting 59 days; nest inundation and illegal take were primary threats.

Conclusions:

• Sea turtle nesting is widespread across the Maldives, with green turtles being the most common nesters.
• Conservation efforts must address nest inundation and illegal take to protect sea turtle populations.
• This data is vital for refining conservation priorities and management strategies for Maldivian sea turtles.