The interplay between sea turtle population and income generation in south-west Nigeria coastal environment

Abstract

Over exploitation of marine resources pose a threat to their population and ultimate survival. Sea turtle is one of the endangered marine species whose conservation must be taken seriously because of their economic advantages. Human interferences with sea turtle habitat and procreation process have been observed to be one of the main causes of reduction in their population. This research considers the interplay of sea turtle population and hunting for sea turtles and eggs for consumption and sales to earn a living by the coastal community dwellers in some parts of South West (SW) Nigeria. The study area is characterized by humid and hot weather, with annual temperature ranging between 26 and 34°C. More than 80 percent of the rain falls during the rainy season around (April to October).Data on field encounters with sea turtle nesting sites, hatchlings and mature adults were collected, questionnaires were administered among the coastal community dwellers. It was observed that some local community members do hunt sea turtle eggs for consumption and eating of sea turtle meat which may create reduction in sea turtle population since their process of procreation has already been tampered with. Captured sea turtles must be rescued for it to survive. More needs to be done on the levels of awareness on turtle conservation and protection. Policy monitoring and implementation on endangered species conservation must be implemented and monitored in Nigeria.