More than 100 turtle nests are monitored on beaches in Piauí due to movement during Carnival
Authorities in Piauí are intensifying monitoring efforts for more than 100 turtle nests on beaches this Carnival season to protect them from increased tourist activity.
The Piauí coastline, known as a breeding ground for sea turtles, has reported 112 identified nests in 2026, according to the Tartarugas do Delta Institute. With the breeding season coinciding with increased beach activity during Carnival, monitoring efforts in nesting areas have been heightened. Teams are conducting daily inspections and reinforcing guidelines for tourists and local businesses, especially in areas where nests are located, to prevent injuries to these vital reproductive sites.
Local regulations prohibit the placement of tables and chairs in areas marked near nests to minimize disturbance to turtle populations. Piauí's coastline hosts four out of five turtle species found along the Brazilian coast. The institute highlights that over 26,000 hatchlings emerged in the state last year, demonstrating the critical importance of these conservation efforts. Increased public awareness and compliance are necessary to ensure the survival of these species during peak tourist seasons.
In an interview with TV Clube, biologist Werlane Magalhães emphasized the need for escalated monitoring efforts to protect the nests and educate beachgoers. She underlined the importance of community involvement in safeguarding these creatures, stating, "We intensified our monitoring activities to provide information and seek support from the public in safeguarding the nests." This proactive approach aims to ensure that the natural nesting processes are not disrupted by human activity, thereby supporting the ongoing survival of sea turtles in the region.