Archelon Reports Record Year for Caretta caretta in Kyparissia

The coastal zone of Kyparissiakos Gulf in western Peloponnese has once again been confirmed as a critical nesting site for the sea turtle *Caretta caretta*, according to Archelon’s 2025 annual report.  

The report highlights that Kyparissiakos Gulf, together with Zakynthos’ Laganas Gulf, hosts over 57% of all *Caretta caretta* nests in the European Union. In 2025, nearly 6,100 nests were documented — a remarkable 74% rise above the 12-year average, marking one of the most prolific nesting seasons in recent decades.  

“This achievement reflects decades of dedicated nest and hatchling protection by Archelon since 1992. Protecting this fragile progress now requires immediate institutional backing for the Nature Conservation Area and full implementation of the National Action Plan for Caretta turtles,” the organization stated.  

Key findings from the report: 

- Of the 6,100 nests, 5,200 were concentrated within 9.5 km of Kyparissia, while 900 were recorded north of Neda, all closely monitored and protected.  
- From May to September, 90 volunteers and researchers from Greece and abroad participated in fieldwork, including 11 field supervisors and 27 college students completing practical assignments.  
- Educational and outreach initiatives engaged 5,800 residents and visitors through guided walks, Agiannaki Environmental Station tours, school presentations, hotel briefings, beach clean-ups, and seasonal station visits in Kalo Nero and Kyparissia.  
- Under the European LIFE MareNatura project, two adult turtles were fitted with new satellite transmitters to track their feeding areas and migratory routes.  

Despite the record numbers, Archelon warned that human pressures continue to threaten the species. The organization urged the government to implement the 2021 National Action Plan, provide funding for ongoing nest and hatchling protection, and expedite the management of the Nature Conservation Area. Archelon also welcomed proposals to establish the Marine Park of the Ionian Sea as a major conservation initiative.