Costa Rica Sea Turtle Nesting
Coastal & Intertidal
Reptiles
Beginner
Costa Rica — Tortuguero
July to October
Overview
Witness endangered green sea turtles nesting on Caribbean beaches under moonlight.
Equipment
- Red-filter headlamp
- Dark clothing
- Insect repellent
- Waterproof poncho
Safety Notes
- White light disorients turtles — red filter only
- Guided groups only on beach at night
Identification Tips
1
Turtles nest at night during high tide
2
Female turtles enter a trance while laying — approach from behind
3
Hatchlings emerge 45-60 days after nesting
Species Checklist
| Species | Likelihood | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Green Sea Turtle | common | Beach nesting Jul-Oct |
| Leatherback Turtle | uncommon | Nesting Mar-Jun |
| Hawksbill Turtle | rare | Rocky reefs offshore |
| Spectacled Caiman | common | Canals and rivers |