Rare Discovery: Green Turtle Nesting Found in Abu Dhabi Waters

Environmental Agency’s Vigilance Uncovers Surprising Ecological Phenomenon

In a significant development for marine conservation efforts in Abu Dhabi, the Environmental Agency (EAD) has announced the unprecedented discovery of a green turtle nesting site within the emirate’s waters. 

This revelation, considered an aberration by experts, marks a notable addition to the sporadic records of green turtle nesting behavior in the UAE and neighboring countries along the Arabian Gulf.

Ahmed Al Hashmi, executive director of the terrestrial and marine biodiversity sector at EAD, revealed that the nest was stumbled upon during one of the agency’s nocturnal turtle surveys. 

Traditionally, Abu Dhabi’s offshore islands have been recognized as hawksbill turtle nesting sites, making this newfound green turtle nest a remarkable find.

Al Hashmi emphasized, “Abu Dhabi offshore islands are known hawksbill turtle nesting sites; however, this discovery is considered an aberration and will be added to the sporadic records of green turtle nesting behavior in the UAE and in countries along the Arabian Gulf.”

Historically, the majority of turtle sightings in Abu Dhabi’s waters have been concentrated in the Al Dhafra region, particularly between the islands of Abu Al Abyadh and Bu Tinah, as well as near the islands of Al Yasat and Muhayimat. 

These areas boast rich marine ecosystems comprising seagrass beds, marine algae, and coral reefs, which are vital for turtle foraging and habitat.

Despite green turtles extensively foraging on seagrass meadows in Abu Dhabi, evidence of nesting behavior had never been documented within the emirate until now. 

Previous satellite tracking studies revealed that most green turtles from Abu Dhabi migrate to Oman to nest before returning to local waters, making the recent discovery all the more unexpected.

Nesting season typically occurs between mid-March to mid-June, with over 200 nests reported annually. Hatching follows between mid-June to early August. 

Female turtles exhibit discerning behavior when selecting nesting sites, often visiting beaches multiple times before settling on an ideal spot secluded from human activity.

The island where the green turtle nest was found features multiple small pocket beaches separated by rocky outcrops—a departure from the long, wide beaches of Oman where green sea turtles nest abundantly. 

EAD remains committed to comprehensive monitoring of confirmed and potential nesting beaches to identify any similar occurrences in the future.

Abu Dhabi is home to four of the seven marine turtle species found worldwide, with a total population exceeding 6,000 individuals. 

Among these, hawksbill and green turtles are prevalent, while Loggerhead turtles and Olive Ridley turtles are occasional visitors.

The recent uptick in nesting and hatchling activity observed during EAD’s survey underscores the robustness of Abu Dhabi’s marine ecosystems and validates the efficacy of the agency’s marine environment protection and rehabilitation policies. 

The establishment and management of natural reserves through the Sheikh Zayed Protected Areas Network, comprising six marine reserves covering 14% of the emirate’s marine environment, play a pivotal role in preserving biodiversity and ensuring the stability of key species in Abu Dhabi’s waters.

This groundbreaking discovery not only highlights the resilience of marine life in Abu Dhabi’s waters but also underscores the importance of continued vigilance and conservation efforts to safeguard these precious habitats for future generations. 

As researchers and conservationists remain vigilant, the revelation of a green turtle nesting site serves as a reminder of the mysteries yet to be unveiled within our oceans.

This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members