Attitudes related to the consumption of sea turtle eggs in the town of Llano Real, Guerrero, Mexico: challenges and opportunities
Keywords:
social attitudes, marine turtles, perception, illegal collection, MexicoAbstract
All sea turtle species are vulnerable to overexploitation due to anthropogenic activities such as incidental capture, habitat destruction, construction of coastal housing developments and, mainly, poaching, collection, consumption and illegal sale of their eggs. This work aims to learn about the attitudes of society related to sea turtle egg consumption in the coastal town of Llano Real, municipality of Benito Juárez, Guerrero, Mexico, which is characterized by being a nesting area, mainly of three species (Lepidochelys olivacea, Dermochelys coriacea and Chelonia mydas). During February 2023, face-to-face surveys were administered to local residents, tourism service providers, and tourists. The sample consisted of 130 subjects, of which 69% were against the consumption of turtle eggs. However, 42% reported consuming or having consumed turtle eggs, despite the fact that this activity is considered illegal. The main group reporting turtle egg consumption is local people, followed by tourists. Tourists who report having consumed turtle eggs mention having consumed them in restaurants or through egg sellers. The main challenge facing sea turtle conservation and protection is the illegal sale and purchase of turtle eggs. Therefore, we conclude that, in order to generate improvements, social participation must be encouraged, the integration of environmental agencies must be promoted, and environmental education programs must be implemented.
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