We are going to Bonaire this weekend and would love to know where the turtles are most likely to be seen and also if they are hatchinbg or laying eggs in late June. Thanks!

Cheryl

The sea turtles are nesting May through November. Most of the nesting sites are on Klein Bonaire however almost every beach on Bonaire gets a turtle visit even if they have to cross rubble. Recently a turtle tried to find a place to nest a Plaza Resort much to the amazement of the guests.
A loggerhead turtle has been sited swimming off of Klein Bonaire. The same or another loggerhead got stuck between some coral rocks on the beach during a nesting attempt. A concerned citizen called STCB for the rescue.

The turtle usually try to nest at late at night on very quiet, dark beaches so catching the right moment to see a nesting turtle is pure luck. If you do see a turtle lumbering up the beach, stay quiet, downwind, and no lights. If you feel you can get away to make a phone call without disturb the turtle, call STCB at 717-8399. But absolutely call it in later. STCB notes all nesting attempts and after the eggs should have hatched they dig up the site for scientific study.

Thanks! sure hope we spot some!

Cheryl,
Last year (August 1999) the STCB (Sea Turtle Conservation Bonaire) used to have weekly lectures at different resorts. You might try to find out if they are doing it this year, and where. It was very interesting!

We saw 3 turtles off Andrea 1(north) Lutty showed us one and the other we came on by ourselves. Saw one on the surface when we arrived.Sometimes infront of Divi.
Saw one off klien too! Good hunting, If you see one by yourselves, if think the marine park would like to know, ask a DM. Have a great time!!

Thanks Antonio and Lorraine. Hopefully we'll be able to spot some!

STCB tells me they plan on starting up the turtle presentations again in July. I will post the info when I find out where and when.

At most resorts and dive shops there is usually a turtle information stand. It has information about identifying the species and siting forms.

The Bonaire Reporter is running a column called Turtle Log every week. It should provide some tips on turtle spotting.
George
Bonaire Reporter http://bonairereporter.com