Turtles

Sea Turtles: Jewels of the Mexican Caribbean!

Hey there, travelers! If there’s one thing that makes the Mexican Caribbean even more magical, beyond its paradise beaches and ancient ruins, it’s the presence of its incredible sea turtles. These ancient beings are true jewels of our oceans, and getting the chance to see them in their natural habitat is an experience that will leave you breathless.

Here in the Caribbean, we’re fortunate to host several species of sea turtles, each with its own particular charm. The most common one you’ll surely get to know is the green turtle (Chelonia mydas). They’re the “vegetarians” of the group, feeding mainly on seagrass, and they can get quite large! Watching them glide elegantly through the water is like seeing a dancer in the ocean.

Another frequent visitor is the loggerhead turtle (Caretta caretta), easily recognized by its large, robust head. They’re more carnivorous and love to feast on crabs and mollusks. These are often seen on nesting nights!

We’re also lucky to have the hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata), famous for its beautiful shell. Although sadly it was heavily hunted in the past for this, today they are protected, and with a bit of luck, you might spot them swimming among the reefs, searching for sponges and anemones, their favorite foods.

And if you’re really lucky, you might even stumble upon the majestic leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea), the largest sea turtle in the world. It’s a true ocean giant, and while it doesn’t nest here as much as other species, it does pass through our waters during its migrations.

Remember that all these turtles are protected. If you’re fortunate enough to encounter one, keep your distance and respect their space. They’re wild animals, and we need to ensure they keep returning to our shores for many years to come!

Have you ever had an encounter with these wonderful creatures? Tell us about your experience!