Bawah Reserve is thrilled to welcome the arrival of this year’s turtle hatchlings, marking the beginning of a vibrant nesting season across its pristine islands. Throughout August, guests will have the rare opportunity to witness one of nature’s most moving spectacles: baby turtles making their instinctive journey from nest to ocean.
With thousands of hatchlings expected, key emergence dates are projected from 26 August – offering a front-row seat to a powerful conservation success story. This annual event is a cornerstone of Bawah Reserve’s marine protection efforts and a testament to the resilience of endangered sea turtles.
This year’s nesting season began later than usual, with the first nests appearing in April. Notably, hawksbill turtles, typically early nesters, were observed nesting alongside green turtles in June and July – an unusual overlap that underscores the dynamic nature of marine ecosystems.
In response to growing environmental challenges, Bawah Reserve has doubled its turtle patrols from 50 to 100 in 2025, enhancing protection of nesting sites and shielding eggs from natural predators like monitor lizards. These efforts are already paying off: hatching success rates have soared to 80%, up from 52% in 2024.
“Bawah Reserve is committed to giving sea turtles the best chance of survival in an increasingly unpredictable climate,” says John Nolan, Dive Centre Manager and Head of Marine Conservation. “The improved hatchling rates this season demonstrate the power of consistent protection and monitoring. Each hatchling that reaches the ocean is a small but vital victory.”
This season’s hatchlings are more than a conservation milestone, they are a symbol of hope for the future of marine life in the Anambas Islands. Through its unwavering commitment to sustainability, Bawah Reserve continues to protect the delicate balance of its ecosystem while offering guests unforgettable, purpose-driven experiences.
