Caretta Caretta Watch at Patara Beach Turkey

Two uniformed officers stand on a sunny Patara Beach with beach chairs and umbrellas and a sign reading 'Patara Beach'.

Teams from the Antalya Provincial Gendarmerie Command are inspecting the nesting grounds of endangered sea turtles and raising awareness among beachgoers at Patara Beach in the Kaş district.

As part of a wider initiative to ensure the safety of endangered species, personnel are carrying out regular patrols across potential loggerhead (Caretta caretta) nesting sites.

“Mind the Nests” Warning to the Public

During these checks, teams are actively speaking with the public to highlight the importance of protecting the turtles’ natural habitats. Visitors are being briefed on the “Protection of Sea Turtles” directive, published by the General Directorate of Nature Conservation and National Parks.

With footfall increasing during the busy summer months, officials are urging people to take extra care. The public is being asked to remain highly mindful of the nesting zones and to avoid damaging areas where loggerhead turtles lay their eggs.

Ongoing Beach Conservation

On beaches like Patara—one of the most crucial nesting sites for loggerheads—both patrols and public awareness campaigns are expected to continue throughout the breeding season. The Gendarmerie emphasises that it is vital for the public to act responsibly to help preserve local wildlife.