On a sunlit morning of May 23, 2018, Kimi, an adult female green sea turtle tagged with the number 34474, glided back into the azure waters off Sanya, Hainan Province. Released by the China Fishery Law Enforcement in celebration of World Turtle Day, Kimi embarked on a journey that would not only mark her own odyssey but also symbolize China’s dedicated efforts in marine conservation.
Kimi was one of five adult sea turtles fitted with satellite tracking devices carefully attached to their shells. These high-tech trackers send signals each time the turtles surface for air, allowing researchers to meticulously map their migratory routes across the vast ocean. The release event underscored a significant stride in safeguarding marine life, offering invaluable data to scientists and conservationists.
By mid-June, satellite data revealed that Kimi had navigated her way to the Qilianyu Archipelago of the Xisha Xuande Islands, a remote cluster of islets known for their rich biodiversity. Continuing her voyage, by September, she reached the vicinity of the Huidong Sea Turtle National Nature Reserve in Guangdong Province. This area, distinguished by its flat seabed and abundant food resources, holds the title of the “last remaining nesting ground” for sea turtles along China’s extensive coastline.
The journey of Kimi illuminates the critical habitats essential for the survival of endangered species like the green sea turtle. China’s commitment to conservation is evident through initiatives like the satellite tracking program and the establishment of protected areas such as the Huidong reserve. These efforts aim to restore sea turtle populations and preserve the marine ecosystems that they, and countless other species, rely upon.
As Kimi continues her life in the wild, she serves not only as a beacon of hope for her species but also as a testament to the impact of targeted conservation actions. Her travels offer insights into migratory patterns and habitat use, informing future strategies to enhance marine biodiversity protection throughout Asia’s vibrant and diverse coastal regions.
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Kimi, a sea turtle's journey, and China's conservation efforts
cgtn.com
