The Leatherback Turtle, one of the largest and rarest sea turtle species, represents the magnificence of nature that we must protect. As exceptional divers and swimmers, these sea turtles play a vital role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. We are truly fortunate that these majestic creatures choose the beaches of Indonesia as nesting sites.
At the end of 2023, the scientific team from the Indonesian Sea Turtle Foundation (YPI) successfully attached GPS satellite trackers to two Leatherback Turtles in Simeulue, Aceh. This initiative aims to better understand their migration patterns, enabling us to provide more effective protection for this endangered species.
Satellite Installation During Nesting Season
During the nesting season, Leatherback Turtles visit Simeulue’s beaches to lay their eggs. Our rangers patrol regularly to protect them from poaching and exploitation. During these patrols, YPI scientists carefully attach GPS satellite trackers to the sea turtles.
These devices are designed to track migration routes, providing critical data on their habitats. This information is essential for mitigating threats, strengthening conservation planning, and conducting further research.
The GPS satellites are placed in a way that does not interfere with the sea turtles’ natural movements. Once fitted, the sea turtles are released back into the ocean. At the end of 2023, YPI successfully tagged two Leatherback Turtles in Simeulue. They were affectionately named Putri Along and Putri Lele Puti by local villagers, inspired by characters from traditional folklore.
Follow Their Migration Journey!
After nesting on Simeulue Island (Aceh), Putri Along swam for 94 days and Putri Lele Puti swam for 120 days, eventually reaching the shores of Australia. Isn’t that incredible? These turtles are truly remarkable swimmers!
Unfortunately, we lost their signals after that point. These findings were shared at the ISTS conference in Thailand, where our parent organization, the Turtle Foundation, collaborated with Australian marine biologists to draft a funding proposal to continue similar programs in the future.
Competent experts can carry out these programs and activities. If you encounter a sea turtle during your travels, remember to observe them from a safe distance of 3–5 meters to avoid disturbing them. Refrain from touching or feeding them, use red light instead of white light as it can disrupt their behavior, and never leave trash in their natural habitat.
Together, we can protect these magnificent sea turtles and their homes for generations to come!
