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SEA
TURTLES NEST ON CRETE!
 The
Sea Turtle Protection Society of Greece is a non-profit making
organisation. During the last 15 years has been active on each important
loggerhead nesting beach in Greece. Hania hosts annually 100 to 200 nests
of this ancient mariner, on the heavy developed beach between Kato Stalos
and Kolimbari
 Primary
targets of the STPS are the protection of the sea turtles, specially
during the nesting period, and data collection on the nesting process.
These activities are crucial for the survival of this critically
endangered species. Otherwise, due to intense human activity, a great
number of nests would be destroyed. In order to limit the danger, a
protective frame is placed on top of each nest while the ones laid on
unsuitable or unsafe sites are transferred to natural hatcheries.
 The
STPS also conducts a broad public awareness programme targeting locals -specially
schoolchildren- tourist and the authorities. Each year thousands of people
receive information about the threats sea turtles face and what can be
done to assist. Two information stations, at the old harbour of Hania and
the main road of Platanias village, operate for this purpose.
If you want
to assist on the survival of this ancient species, please bear in mind the
following:
WHAT YOU
CAN DO TO HELP
- Enjoy the beaches
during daytime ; leave them clear at night, free of noise, lights
and sunbeds
- Always dispose
rubbish carefully. Plastic bags and bottles floating in the water
kill sea turtles as they mistake them for jellyfish, a major part of
their diet
- Don't interfere to
the metal frames protecting the nests. Sea turtles, their nests,
eggs and hatchlings are protected by Greek and International law
- The journey to the
water is vital for the hatchlings. The beach where they were born is
imprinted in their memory. So please don't touch the baby turtles
- If you have any
comments or suggestions on improving the conditions sea turtles face
while nesting, do not hesitate to contact your hotel management or
tour operator
- Adopt a sea turtle;
your support will help us continue vital conservation work to
protect the remaining sea turtles
Sea
Turtle Protection Society - Project of Crete
PO Box 30, 74100 Rethymno Crete, GR
Tel / Fax : +30 831-72288, 1-3844146
stpscrete@ret.forthnet.gr, www.compulink.gr/stps
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