Endora Celohoxhaj
Other projects
12 Sep 2023
Advancing Marine Turtle Conservation: A Comprehensive Study of Nesting Habitats and Effective Protection Measures for Caretta caretta in Albania
This project aims to strengthen the conservation of the Loggerhead Sea Turtle (Caretta caretta) in Albania, focusing on the Vlorë region, where recent monitoring confirmed the country’s first successful nesting season and egg relocation. Building on these achievements, the initiative seeks to expand nest monitoring, improve egg relocation protocols, and analyse biological samples to understand causes of egg or hatchling mortality. Collaboration with SharkLab Adria will support laboratory analysis that is not currently feasible in Albania.
Hatchling of Caretta caretta. © Kostandin Xhaho.
The conservation importance of this work lies in the protection of both species and habitat. Loggerhead turtles, classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, face multiple threats including coastal development, tourism disturbance, predation, beach erosion, and climate change. The nesting beaches of Pishe-Poro–Nartë Protected Landscape and surrounding dunes are vital habitats, serving not only as turtle nesting grounds but also as natural barriers protecting coastal ecosystems and communities. Long-term monitoring will provide essential data to guide adaptive management and policy.
The project has four main objectives:
1. Increase nesting data and monitoring capacity through systematic patrols, drone surveys, camera traps, and detailed recording of nesting activity.
2. Improve understanding of habitat changes and threats by monitoring erosion, dune stability, and human activities, as well as investigating biological causes of nest failure.
3. Refine nest management and egg relocation protocols, relocating vulnerable nests and ensuring higher hatchling survival through protective cages and best-practice methods.
4. Implement conservation recommendations and influence policy, producing an official recommendation paper for Albanian authorities and engaging institutions such as the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, the National Agency of Protected Areas, and Vlora Municipality. Participation in the 2025 Mediterranean Conference on Marine Turtles in Greece will also allow integration of findings into regional conservation strategies.
Stakeholder collaboration is central. Local authorities, fishermen, communities, and media will be engaged to enhance awareness and encourage grassroots involvement. PPNEA, Albania’s leading environmental NGO, provides institutional backing and coordination.
Expected outcomes include comprehensive data on nesting trends, improved nest survival, stronger institutional cooperation, and greater public awareness. The long-term vision is to integrate sea turtle conservation into Albania’s biodiversity strategies, ensuring sustainable protection of Caretta caretta and its habitats.