Species

Marine Turtles

Two species of marine turtles nest on the Karachi coast, the green turtle (chelonia mydas) and the olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea). The main threats are commercial trade in turtle skin, shell, medicines and cosmetics, and destruction of eggs by predators, especially feral domestic dogs.

Other dangers to turtles come from poachers, accidental capture in fishing nets, and extensive coastal development, which results in human disturbance at the nesting sites and pollution. WWF-P aims to protect endangered marine turtles and conserve their critical nesting sites. The main focus of the work will be on public awareness and community participation, with local communities being trained in turtle management techniques.