Green turtle population recovery at Aldabra Atoll continues after 50 yr of protection

Aldabra Atoll has demonstrated significant recovery in its green turtle population after 50 years of continuous protection. Research indicates a 173% increase in annual clutch production from 2014 to 2019 compared to the early 1980s, and a potential 410-665% increase since protection began in 1968. The study, which monitored 12 months of nesting seasons over five decades, found that clutch numbers have risen across most beach groups on the atoll, with notable recovery at Settlement Beach, historically the site of intense exploitation. Additionally, the data suggests a shift in nesting seasonality, with year-round activity peaking around May and potentially extending later into the year. This research underscores the importance of long-term protection for endangered species and highlights Aldabra Atoll's role as a global reference site for green turtle conservation.

Pritchard, A., Sanchez, C., Bunbury, N., Burt, A., Currie, J., Doak, N., Fleischer-Dogley, F., Metcalfe, K., Mortimer, J., Richards, H., van de Crommenacker, J., & Godley, B. (2022). Green turtle population recovery at Aldabra Atoll continues after 50 yr of protection. Endangered Species Research, 47, 205–215. https://doi.org/10.3354/esr01174