A recent sighting of a sea turtle swimming gracefully in the crystal-clear waters of Nha Trang Bay has captured the attention of the online community. This marks the first time in many years that sea turtles have been spotted in the bay, a significant moment for both marine enthusiasts and conservationists.
The return of these majestic creatures is not only a positive sign for the health of the ecosystem but also serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our oceans. Currently, several species of sea turtles in Vietnam face the threat of extinction due to environmental pollution and over-exploitation.
During routine ecological surveys, experts from the Nha Trang Bay Management Board recorded the presence of the sea turtle species. In the past, these turtles were regularly seen at Bai Bang, Hon Tre Island, where they came to lay their eggs. However, for many years, their presence has been alarmingly absent.
Vietnam is home to five species of sea turtles, including the leatherback, green, and hawksbill turtles, all of which are listed in Vietnam’s Red Book of endangered species. The number of turtles coming ashore to lay eggs has plummeted dramatically, from 10,000 individuals annually in the 1980s to just 450 in 2019.
In Nha Trang Bay, protecting sea turtles involves not only establishing protected areas for nesting but also maintaining a pollution-free marine environment and reducing threats to their survival. Since October 1st of last year, regulations have been in place prohibiting tourists from bringing single-use plastics onto tour boats. This is one of the many measures aimed at reducing plastic waste in the ocean, a critical effort to safeguard the turtles from potential hazards.
With these conservation actions and the recent sighting of sea turtles, there is renewed optimism that Nha Trang Bay could once again become a thriving habitat for these ancient mariners.