Turtle Conservation in Nosy Komba, Madagascar

The turtle conservation program in Nosy Komba involves seasonal monitoring of sea turtles nesting on the northern beaches of Madagascar. You’ll help identify and monitor key nesting sites, behavior, and population changes from November to March. During the off-nesting season, from April to October, you’ll assist in identifying areas of turtle activity and population size and re-establishing nesting beaches. You’ll conduct seagrass surveys, turtle watches, and beach cleans when tides allow.

The research focuses on green and hawksbill sea turtles, with data also collected on olive ridley and loggerhead turtles if encountered. This information helps protect and manage turtle populations. We also engage the local community through education programs promoting turtle conservation.

You will help create a new research database in a relatively unstudied area, searching for signs of turtle activity most days and nights. If turtles or eggs are found, you may handle them as part of data collection, ensuring minimal negative impact.