​SPECIAL NEWS - October 6 2020

We are proud to present the results of an exciting and innovative research project conducted here at the station, using GPS-enabled decoy turtle eggs to track illegal trade. (Link to paper HERE)

In Costa Rica, sea turtle eggs are consumed as bar snacks, street food and in the homes of coastal communities. While this is illegal, law enforcement is under resourced and conservation efforts rely on stewardship projects with volunteer teams patrolling the beach to protect nesting female turtles. However, it is often the case that we only know a nest has been taken when we find an empty egg chamber; by which time it is too late. In response to this, 3D printed decoy turtle eggs were deployed in select turtle nests vulnerable to illegal extraction. When a nest was stolen, the decoy tracks the trafficking route enabling researchers to follow the turtle eggs. 
The results enhanced our understanding of local trade patterns and helps target demand reduction campaigns. 

We want to thank Helen Pheasey et al. for this innovative project.  
Using GPS-enabled decoy turtle eggs to track illegal trade
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At Caño Palma Biological Station we operate a number of long term monitoring projects, as well as provide facilities and support for researchers and students conducting independent research. Please click below to learn more:

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