Vietnam: Watch sea turtles by satellite

In Con Dao, three green turtles have been fitted with satellite transmitters. As a result, environmentalists have been able to keep track of the location and passage of turtles' movements .

". So far, after one month, all three devices are still signaling the location and movement of the turtles. The results of satellite tracking have exceeded expectations. " - Mr. Le Xuan Ai, Director of Con Dao National Park said.

Con Dao National Park has 17 breeding grounds for sea turtles.(Photo: ST)

Con Dao National Park is the first place in Vietnam to conduct additional satellite monitoring for activities to protect the spawning beaches of Con Dao.

Con Dao is identified as the most important spawning area of ​​marine turtles in Vietnam.

Tracking satellite sea turtles will provide important information for managers and conservationists in an effort to protect this threatened marine species.

About 10 years ago, sea turtles were protected on spawning grounds in Con Dao with tens of thousands of baby turtles released annually. Here, mother turtles are wearing tags to monitor reproductive behavior and population status.

Currently, with satellite tracking, managers and conservationists can have a clearer picture of the major feeding and breeding habitats of sea turtles. At the same time, know more about their migration path.

The conservation program at Con Dao spawning grounds has been quite successful, but many marine turtles still die after reaching the breeding grounds due to fishing nets or degraded habitats.

In the near future, satellite monitoring will be linked to a comprehensive coastal and coastal planning program in Con Dao under the UNDP project by the Global Environment Fund and the Embassy. Denmark (DANIDA) is funded.

In addition, educational programs for Con Dao schools will be implemented, including a naming competition and sea turtle tracking.

Kieu Minh