Doha: The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change has launched the season for the hatching and release of juvenile hawksbill sea turtles into their natural habitat at Fuwairit Beach, as part of national efforts to protect biodiversity and conserve endangered marine species.

The ministry reported that the current season recorded 284 nesting events across seven key sites along Qatar's northern coastline, compared with 219 nesting events during the previous season, reflecting the success of national programs aimed at protecting sea turtles. Using identification tags, specialists recorded repeat visits by 15 turtles, with one turtle completing four nesting cycles while others returned two or three times.

Protected nests have started producing new hatchlings, which are being released into the sea in accordance with precise scientific procedures designed to enhance their chances of survival and eventual return to Qatari shores. The initiative is being undertaken by the Wildlife Development Department in collaboration with the Nature Reserves Department and the Marine Protection Department.

The sea-turtle protection project, launched in 2003, remains one of Qatar's pioneering environmental initiatives, encompassing field monitoring, nest protection, hatchling follow-up, and environmental awareness. The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to continuing monitoring activities until the end of the season, preserving the sustainability of coastal and marine ecosystems.

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