Turtle Time in Jamaica
11 August | Missy Ryan
During my most recent trip to Jamacia, I wanted to do something that filled my heart; an experience that would be unique and special. After doing some research and looking into options, Ochi is one of the select areas that participates in what is called “The Turtle Release.” The best time to watch these turtles hatch is between July and December. Lucky for me, my trip was in November.
Upon arrival I did go to Sandals excursions desk and inquire, as they only release the turtles once a week. Also, something to keep in mind is that Ochi is the only location on the island that participates in these hatchings. There is not another location or time of the year other than the few months that the turtles are released.
After signing up and paying for my spot, I also learned that proceeds are donated to the conservation of these turtles! I truly was happy with my decision to make this experience a priority.
After a short bus ride, we were taken to a beach that was located on the island. On the beach there are several eggs that are buried within the sand. We were told that several natives to the island were locating the eggs and selling them for profit. In order to eliminate and save the endearment of the eggs, these volunteers take the eggs and dig below the typical depth. Then they create a map with coordinates so they can locate where the eggs have been hidden. This is truly one of the most intriguing volunteer crews I have witnessed.
After locating the eggs, we watched the miracle of birth as each sweet turtle broke through their shell. We were encouraged to take as many babies as possible and wash them off in the ocean. After washing them, we were instructed to exam each turtle to be sure it was formed correctly and did not have any visible disabilities. Absolutely wonderful to be able to oversee such small creatures as they wiggled their way into the world.
We were told that over three hundred eggs had hatched but sometimes a handful do not make it. After examining each turtle, we took them and lined them up right before the shoreline. As they headed to the sea several were eager to get to where they naturally were programmed to swim. Some fell behind and were taken to be nurtured some more.
There are four types of Sea Turtles that can be found in Jamacia. They include green turtle, the loggerhead, hawksbill, and leatherback turtles. It turns out that the leatherback and hawksbill are endangered species!
The turtles are said to head to the Galapagos Islands and have the knowledge and memory to be able to return in less than a year to where they were released! Through this experience myself and others were able to guide almost three hundred sea turtles to safety. Due to this wonderful organization, the survival rate of turtles has increased, and hatchlings have had a better chance of life.
If you are traveling and heading to Ochi or would like to know more about this wonderful project that Sandals participates in, please feel free to reach out! missyr@wishesfamilytravel.com
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Looking forward to planning your next adventure!