Each summer, a quiet miracle unfolds along the sun-drenched beaches of southern Turkey. As the golden sands of Mersin warm up beneath the Mediterranean sun, thousands of infant sea turtles emerge from their eggs and take their first courageous steps toward the sea—a journey both as ancient as it is perilous.
A Natural Wonder Repeats Itself
Mersin, one of Türkiye's most significant nesting areas, is home to two species of sea turtles that are threatened globally: the loggerhead (Caretta caretta) and the green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas). From May to August, the same beaches—Mezitli, Erdemli, Silifke, Anamur, Yenişehir, and Akdeniz—are frequented by these impressive creatures to lay their eggs in the sand.
By July, following weeks of incubation, the beaches teem with life as hatchlings instinctively crawl from beneath the sand and make a beeline for the ocean. Led by none, and driven by nothing other than instinct and moonlight, these hatchlings begin their treacherous journey to the sea.
Why the Crawl Matters
As much as beachgoers may be inclined to assist, touching or relocating the hatchlings is not advisable, according to experts. The hatchlings must reach the sea on their own to complete an essential biological process, according to Dr. Mahmut Ergene, a lecturer at the Sea Turtles Application and Research Centre at Mersin University.
As they travel on the sand, they leave a scent trail from the egg they are clinging to. It is a form of disguising in the sea habitat," Dr. Ergene continues. "When they are directly released into the sea, they may carry the odour of blood and nutrients and become easy prey for predators."
Conservation in Action
Thanks to the endless efforts of scientists, local authorities, and dedicated volunteers, hatchling success in Mersin is steadily increasing. The Sea Turtles Application and Research Centre plays a vital role in monitoring and protecting nests, educating the public, and encouraging minimal human interference.
At Davultepe Beach in Mezitli, this has been a particularly good season. More than 250 nests have been counted—approaching the record of 274. The increase provides optimism not just for turtles in the area but for conservation worldwide, since sea turtle populations vary from year to year and must be monitored over the long term to be fully comprehended.
A Delicate Balance
This annual cycle is such a powerful reminder of nature's resilience—but also its fragility. Although these baby turtles symbolise life and determination, their survival is never guaranteed. Artificial light, pollution, habitat loss, and human interaction continue to pose threats to their fragile ecosystem.
Still, the presence of so many healthy hatchlings this year is cause for celebration. It shows that dedicated, science-driven conservation works—and that local communities can make a difference when they come together to protect the natural world.
How You Can Help
If you're lucky enough to witness this incredible natural phenomenon, remember:
- Please don't touch or disturb the turtles or nests.
- Avoid bright lights or loud noises close to nesting beaches at night.
- Obey local rules and signs at guarded beaches.
- Support groups involved in sea turtle conservation.
Each small act counts. Since sometimes the smallest of creatures hold the largest of hopes.
Final Thought
As the waves warmly welcome these brave little travellers into the open Mediterranean, one thing is sure: the beaches of Mersin are not only beautiful shores—they are sacred lands for life itself. And with continued protection and awareness, we can ensure that sea turtles will return, year after year, to begin their timeless journey all over again.
