By Vince Joshua G Banal & Noeleen A Llorico 

Two successful hatchlings of the critically endangered Hawksbill Sea Turtle (Eretmochelys imbricata) nests were recently recorded at the Xavier University Marine Station in Solana, Jasaan. These events mark a hopeful continuation of the turtle nesting season documented in December 2024 and January 2025.

The first batch of hatchlings was observed early on 15 February 2025, at around 6:00 AM, although it is believed that the turtles emerged during midnight or in the early hours of the day. A total of 160 hatchlings were counted—155 alive and 5 dead, likely due to delayed monitoring of the nest. The nest was carefully excavated on 4 March 2025, confirming 160 eggs.

Newly hatched Hawksbill sea turtles

The second hatching was confirmed on 4 April 2025, when the nest was carefully excavated after no emergence of hatchlings was observed. Nest findings revealed a total of 182 eggs, with 178 successfully hatched and 4 unhatched, spoiled, or dead. Based on the condition of the nest and the presence of broken shells, staff estimated that the hatching occurred around 12 March 2025, coinciding with the full moon—an event known to influence sea turtle behavior.

Empty eggshells of Hawksbill sea turtles were found

This marks a significant indicator of progress in ongoing conservation efforts at the Marine Station, where nests are regularly fenced to protect eggs from predators and other disturbances. The emergence of over 300 hatchlings this season is a promising sign for the Hawksbill population, which continues to face threats from habitat destruction, pollution, and illegal wildlife trade.

A newly hatched Hawksbill sea turtle on its first swimming frenzy

The Xavier University - McKeough Marine Center remains committed to monitoring and safeguarding nesting sites, providing these endangered species with a safe haven to reproduce and thrive. As the nesting season progresses, the center encourages continued awareness and support for marine conservation initiatives to ensure these sea turtles can return for generations to come.