Ssshh! Turtles Nesting

Sea Turtles are protected in Barbados because the species is endangered, so we feel privileged that Sea Breeze Beach House, O2 Beach Club & Spa, and The Rockley, are all located close to turtle nesting sites.

Our beautiful island is home to three species of turtles: Hawksbill, Green, and Leatherback, which visit our shores to nest all year round, and during the summer months, mother turtles visit and lay up to 100 turtle eggs in the sand.

Why do they return also has a fascinating answer, as the female turtles from different islands tend to have varied immune genes, suggesting that returning to their island of birth to breed is associated with the advantages in parasite resistance and diseases.

At Sea Breeze Beach House and O2 Beach Club & Spa, protecting the turtles is a tenet of our Sustainability strategy. Once we've observed the signs of a turtle nesting - or sometimes the miraculous event itself - we cordon off the spot to ensure the safety of the nest. Incubation time varies with species, clutch size, and temperature and humidity in the nest. The incubation time for most species is 45 to 70 days. Research indicates that the sex of an embryo is dependent on the temperature of the nest. Then it can take 2-4 days for hatchlings to make their way up to the surface, and they usually emerge at night when it's dark. 

Ocean Hotels Barbados Group is working with the Sea Turtle Project, who give the following advice for guests who happen on these wonderful creatures.

• Avoid touching nesting turtles or picking up baby turtles.
• Never shine a light or use flash photography as the laying mother or hatchlings will become disoriented.
• Guests who see any turtles on our beach should contact the Hotel Front Desk.
• A note for the general public: Anyone who thinks a turtle or hatchlings are in trouble should call the Barbados Turtle Hot Line +1 (246) 230 0142