Saving a Sea Turtle

I released a baby sea turtle into the ocean!

It was actually a very exciting thing to do and see.

You buy a baby sea turtle for 10Q and then name it. Mine was Conchita (I like that name). Karen's was Ponchito. You then place the turtle on the sand and release it into the waters. We all did this at the same time, and then you watch all the turtles in this race! The owner of the fastest turtle in the ocean wins a prize. This little girl won a t-shirt.

I had to hold this reptile in my hand until the race started. Several people were warning me to not squeeze her too hard....while I was screaming. It was trying to get away...and I wasn't sure if I liked holding a reptile!

Help Save the Sea Turtle...

Perhaps one of the most amazing things you can do in Monterrico is actively help to save the local species of sea turtle. Animal sanctuaries throughout the city have stepped in to stem off the illegal trade in sea turtle eggs, and they've enlisted the visiting tourists and vacationers to help out.

Because Monterrico's economy is only barely stimulated by the tourism industry, many of the local people face a greater struggle for economic security and freedom. But, despite it being illegal, there is a highly lucrative trade in the pilfered eggs of these graceful giants. Some of the eggs are used in recipes; others are used for any other number of things.

As a visitor to Monterrico, you can do your part to ease the burden on both the turtles and the local citizens.

You aid the turtles by visiting the animal sanctuary, where you can actually actively, physically release a baby sea turtle out into the warmth and safety of the oceans currents.

You aid the citizens by visiting the various affordable hotels and restaurants and bringing your money into their own local economy, helping them find more rewarding options than poaching.