In summer in Cape Verde something really special happens, something that can give you strong emotions: we are talking about the spawning of sea turtles. Red loggerhead turtles represent one of the largest breeding populations in the world and quite possibly the largest breeding colony on the West African coast. Each year, more than 3,000 sea turtles emerge in the moonlight, wallowing in the soft sand to dig their nests and lay their eggs. Sea turtles lay their nests between June and October, and August is the best month to witness nest formation firsthand. On average, female turtles make 3 to 5 trips to the beaches, with an interval of 10 to 15 days between trips. Each time, the turtle builds a new nest and lays up to 100 eggs. Hatching baby turtles is an exciting and rewarding experience that you will cherish for life. Hatches are observed for a minimum of 45 days then hatchling will head to the sea to begin a long journey across the oceans, in which they will be guided by the currents and will be able to distribute themselves along the Atlantic Ocean. Once the turtles reach reproductive age, these amazing animals travel thousands of kilometers to return to their areas of origin. Between the months of April and May appear in Cape Verde the first individuals, males, and females, to mate and start a new reproductive cycle. Mating takes place at sea, preceded by a procession consisting of a kind of dance of the male, a “caress” not always appreciated by the female. Tours of the spawning and nesting areas are provided by specialized local guides who specialize in conservation efforts. Organized trips should always be arranged, as it is important not to endanger these beautiful creatures by destroying their habitats. Watching sea turtles prepare their nests, and the subsequent spawning, can be one of the most magical experiences while in Cape Verde. Not only will you otherwise treasure local conservation efforts, but you’ll also create some of the most beautiful memories during your visit to the archipelago. Contact Us
