Status and conservation of sea turtles in Thailand

Abstract

Conservation attempts are being made for the four remain species of sea turtles in Thai waters, which are green turtle (Chelonia mydas), hawksbill turtle (Eretmochelys imbricat), olive ridley turtle (Lepidochlys olivacea) and leatherback turtle (Dermochelys coriacea). Green and hawksbill turtles are abundant in the Gulf of Thailand, nesting activities occurs all year round with a peak from May to July. Olive ridley and leatherback turtles are found at the Andaman Sea coast of Thailand, their nesting season is a short period between October and March. Populations of the sea turtles in Thailand have been found drastically declined, which more seriously for the olive ridley and leatherback. The declination caused by several factors. Laws and regulations have been registered in order to conserve sea turtle. Public information on sea turtle biology and conservation have been conducted to increase public awareness.