Turtle Conservation Camp

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Our turtle conservation camp has evolved into an independent operation. For the most current information and to support ongoing conservation efforts, please visit ecocamps.id. We fully endorse their program, efforts, and goals, and continue to visit their locations. Thank you for your interest in turtle conservation!

Turtle Camp Story

While exploring the remote coasts of Flores, we stumbled across this amazing beach.

Discussing the history and scenery with the local village, we were offered turtle eggs to eat. This lead us to discover that Hawksbill Sea Turtles nest on this beach in ever dwindling numbers as the eggs are eaten or sold to traders. Later, we discovered that Leatherback Turtles have nested on this beach for 8 of the past 10 years! this was true in 2017, but has not proven correct since then, with only a single nesting.

Thus, the creation of Pante Hera, our very own turtle conservation camp. The camp is entirely operated through donations and the work of volunteers and visitors like you. While the main objective of the camp is preservation and protection of the turtles, we work diligently with the local village to raise considerable awareness in the area regarding environmental issues as well as creating sustainable income.

Savu Sea Marine Protected Area

Our conservation center is located in the heart of the Savu Sea Marine Protected Area.

This is one of the largest Marine Protected Areas in Indonesia and is designed to protect the region’s large mammal and aquatic species including whales, dolphins, manta rays and sea turtles. Sadly, the number of rangers and boats to protect the park is extremely limited and resources are stretched far beyond the ability to protect. Thus, our turtle conservation center supplements the already existing laws and protection.

Please click here to learn more about this Marine Protected Area.

  • The Savu Sea is a critical habitat for a wide range of marine life, including 21 species of cetaceans, sea turtles, dugongs, and manta rays
  • The area features a dramatic underwater landscape with steep drop-offs from shallow reefs to deep canyons and seamounts
  • It was declared a Marine National Park by the Indonesian government, covering over 30,000 square kilometers
  • The Savu Sea serves as an important migratory corridor and nursery area for fish, supporting high biodiversity and productivity
  • Home to a significant portion of the world's coral species, the region is vital for coral reef conservation
  • The area faces threats from unsustainable fishing and coastal development, prompting the establishment of a network of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) to address these issue
  • Local communities are actively involved in sustainable ecotourism initiatives, which include marine mammal observation and diving tours
  • The Savu Sea contributes significantly to fisheries resources in the region, supporting the livelihoods of millions of people

Turtle Conservation: beach patrolling and data collection.

Our project is currently training members of the local community to patrol the beach and recognize the signs of nests and potential poaching. Throughout 2015, we were establishing the base population and eggs counts. In 2016, we started our tagging program to track the migratory patterns of the local population. Volunteers and visitors participated in nightly beach patrols, and during hatchings, worked to keep away predators and poachers.

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