La Tortuga Viva

La Tortuga Viva (LTV) is a non-profit organisation that works with local communities to conserve native sea turtles along the Playa Icacos coastline, in Guerrero, Mexico. Our work in this region is vital, as these shores are a frequent nesting site for Olive Ridley, Leatherback and Green sea turtles. The LTV team endeavours to protect these nests from predators and poachers, until the hatchlings are ready to journey down to the water. We also aim to apply holistic approaches to our conservation and community outreach; engaging in fieldwork, social & educational impact work, and youth empowerment within the surrounding communities. 10-14 local volunteers patrol the beach at night to look for turtles or turtle tracks; collecting eggs buried in the sand and relocating them to the security of the sanctuary. The eggs are protected during their incubation period and then safely released onto the beach, where they can naturally make their way to the sea. Since 2010, we have successfully released over sea turtles into the Pacific Ocean.