The Caribbean coast of Panama hosts hundreds of mother sea turtles during nesting seasons, which occur during the months of March through July. The five different species that nest on the beaches of Panama are the Hawksbill, Loggerhead, Green, Olive Ridley, and Leatherback sea turtles.

Of the five species, the leatherback sea turtle is not only the largest turtle, but it is also one of the largest reptiles in the world. Leatherback turtles, or Tortuga Baula, grow up to seven feet and can weigh up to 2,000 pounds. Also, unlike all other sea turtles Leatherbacks don’t have a hard bony shell; instead they have a flexible shell with a rubbery texture.

Olive Ridley turtles, or Tortuga Lora, another common species in Panama are much smaller and only weigh 100 pounds. They are one of the smallest sea turtle species. The name, Olive Ridley, is inspired by their olive, heart-shaped shell. During nesting season, each of the mother sea turtles deposits nearly 100 eggs in each nest.

Unfortunately, not all sea turtles and eggs are safe on the beach or in the water. A lot of threats are decreasing the populations of the sea turtles. Sea turtles get caught in fishing lines, their eggs get collected or they are killed on the beach. Leatherbacks often mistake pieces of plastic for their favorite food, jellyfish.

Sea Turtle Conservation in Panama

Various communities in Panama are making strong efforts to conserve the sea turtle population by tracking them and conducting studies.

Our Summer Expedition students and our Girl Scout Destination participants also make a difference by participating in service projects to help protect the endangered sea turtles. The students help with night patrols, cataloging nests, habitat creation, and sometimes they even help release baby turtles into wild!