A Conservation Triumph
Zakynthos has recorded a landmark achievement for marine conservation: an unprecedented 1,201 loggerhead sea turtle nests were documented at Sekania Beach during the 2024 nesting season. This record-breaking number underscores the effectiveness of decades of conservation work by WWF Greece and local organizations.
Laganas Bay, on the southern coast of Zakynthos, hosts one of the largest nesting populations of the Caretta caretta in the entire Mediterranean. The bay’s beaches — particularly Sekania, which is strictly protected — provide critical nesting habitat for this endangered species.
Why Zakynthos Matters for Sea Turtles
The island is estimated to host up to 80% of the Caretta caretta population in the Mediterranean, though some recent studies suggest this figure may have decreased to around 25% due to anthropogenic threats. The nesting season typically runs from late May through August, with hatchlings emerging from September through October.
Key threats to the turtles include:
- Light pollution from coastal hotels and bars disorients hatchlings
- Beach furniture and umbrellas compact the sand and obstruct nesting females
- Boat traffic in Laganas Bay poses collision risks
- Noise from nightlife in Laganas disturbs nesting behavior
Protection Measures in Place
The National Marine Park of Zakynthos (NMPZ) enforces strict regulations in the bay:
- No boat anchoring in shallow nesting areas
- Beach closures after sunset on key nesting beaches
- Speed restrictions for all vessels in the bay
- Monitored nesting corridors with volunteer patrols
How Visitors Can Help
Travelers to Zakynthos can contribute to turtle conservation by:
- Choosing responsible boat tour operators who respect no-go zones
- Avoiding beach furniture on protected beaches
- Never using flashlights or phone lights on nesting beaches at night
- Supporting the Zante Turtle Center and local conservation organizations
- Reporting any turtle sightings or nesting activity to park authorities
The 2025 nesting season is expected to be another strong year, offering visitors the magical chance to witness one of the Mediterranean’s greatest wildlife spectacles.