Sea turtle hatchlings are released at Praia da Princesa, in the APA Algodoal-Maiandeua
The animals were monitored for about 60 days, from the moment of laying until they were ready to face the challenge of reaching the sea
Praia da Princesa, one of the postcards of the Environmental Protection Area (APA) Algodoal-Maiandeua, in Maracanã, northeastern Pará, was the stage for a special moment this Thursday (28): the release of 20 hatchlings of the olive ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea). Conducted by the Instituto Bicho D’água and Arvut Meio Ambiente, in partnership with the Institute of Forest Development and Biodiversity (Ideflor-Bio), the event brought together authorities, visitors, and the local community.
The animals were monitored for about 60 days, from the moment of laying until they were ready to face the challenge of reaching the sea. This process is essential to increase the chances of survival of the species, considered vulnerable to extinction, in the face of threats such as pollution, egg hunting, and irregular occupation of nesting areas.
For the monitor from Instituto Bicho D’água and Arvut Meio Ambiente, Alcione Alves, the birth and release of the hatchlings represent a symbol of hope. “Each hatchling that reaches the sea carries with it our daily dedication to monitoring and protection. It is exciting to see the community getting involved, children and adults learning the importance of preservation. This moment shows that life always finds a way when there is care and responsibility,” she highlighted.
Engagement - The release of the hatchlings also had an educational character, mobilizing children and young people from the community, who were able to closely follow the cycle of marine life. The initiative reinforced the importance of environmental awareness from an early age, so that new generations take on the role of protectors of local biodiversity.
Furthermore, it is worth remembering that Praia da Princesa, the chosen setting for the release, is one of the most visited areas of Algodoal-Maiandeua and represents the balance between sustainable tourism and environmental preservation. The presence of tourists during the activity was seen as an opportunity to multiply the message of conservation and respect for nature.
According to the director of Management and Monitoring of Conservation Units at Ideflor-Bio, Ellivelton Carvalho, the activity also reinforces the relationship between conservation and community engagement. “This is a moment to celebrate life and nature. Ideflor-Bio reaffirms here its commitment to the preservation of turtles and the awareness of local communities, which are the true guardians of the conservation unit. It is essential that the population is engaged, does not consume eggs, and always informs us when identifying the presence of these animals. Together we can protect the life cycle of sea turtles,” he stated.
Bioindicator - The environmental analyst at Ideflor-Bio, Lorena Lisboa, reminded that the presence of turtles is an indicator of the health of coastal ecosystems. “Sea turtles are bioindicators of the environment and play an essential role in the natural regulation of coastal ecosystems. Furthermore, when they are born and traverse the sandy beach, they register this location in their memory and return in the future to nest. Ensuring the survival of the hatchlings today means securing that this life story continues,” she explained.
The manager of the Administrative Region of Northeast Ideflor-Bio, Raimunda Araújo, affectionately known as Dona Dica, expressed her emotion with the event. “It is a moment of gratitude to God and great joy for our community. Welcoming visitors and authorities here on the island and showing the natural wealth we have is a source of pride. The release of the turtles is a blessing and a gift for all of us who live and care for this territory,” she said.
Partnership - The Public Ministry of the State of Pará (MPPA) was also present at the action. For the Public Prosecutor of Maracanã, Brenda Braga, the joint work of the institutions is essential for the continuity of the initiatives. “It is a beautiful work carried out by Ideflor-Bio, Arvut, and Instituto Bicho D’água. The Public Ministry, as a supervisor of public services, including the environment, closely monitors these activities to ensure that the APA Algodoal-Maiandeua is protected. We will always be present, supervising and supporting actions that ensure the preservation of sea turtles on the Pará coast,” she emphasized.
The prosecutor also stated that the action left as a legacy not only the hope of future females returning to the same beach but also the certainty that the protection of endangered species is only possible with a united effort among institutions, communities, and civil society. “In Algodoal, each release reaffirms that marine life deserves to be celebrated and preserved,” concluded Brenda Braga.
