Oporta-McCarthy explains that their research has shown the importance of involving local communities in conservation efforts, as they are the ones who live alongside these turtles and have a vested interest in their survival.
“We have had countless successes and also failures, but we have learned that we must work with the community and involve them in every step: from planning to execution and monitoring,” she says.
The involvement of local people has also helped in setting up community-based conservation initiatives like ecotourism, turtle adoption programs, and beach clean-ups. This has not only improved the socio-economic conditions of the community but has also increased awareness and protection of the hawksbill turtles.
Oporta-McCarthy acknowledges that there are still challenges ahead in protecting the hawksbill turtle, such as habitat destruction, pollution, climate change, and the black market trade of their shells.
“The key to success is constant monitoring and conservation actions in place, and the involvement of local communities is essential in this process,” she says.
Overall, the work being done by researchers like Nupur Kale in India and Ariana Oporta-McCarthy in Costa Rica is crucial in understanding and protecting endangered sea turtles around the world. Their dedication to studying and conserving these animals, along with the involvement of local communities, is essential in ensuring the survival of these iconic species for generations to come.
