Earlier this month on January 6, a female sea turtle made waves on Ganquan Island in Sansha City, Hainan Province, as she came ashore to nest and lay her eggs. This marks the first sea turtle nesting site of 2026 in the Xisha Islands, setting the stage for a season of conservation and eco-adventures. 🐢
Local rangers and volunteers wasted no time: they cordoned off the beach, installed protective barriers around the nest, and posted information signs to keep curious explorers at a safe distance. These measures aim to safeguard the eggs through their critical incubation period, which lasts around 50–60 days.
Ganquan Island has become a hotspot for nature lovers. With its vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and now its first turtle nest of the year, the island offers a unique chance for eco-tourists to connect with marine life—while respecting the habitat’s fragile balance.
Conservation specialists say that early nesting is a positive sign. "This first clutch shows that our monitoring efforts are paying off," said a Sansha City wildlife officer. They plan to host guided night tours later in the season, combining education with responsible tourism.
For students, researchers, and travelers dreaming of a hands-on marine conservation experience, the Xisha Islands are gearing up for an exciting year. Keep an eye on sandy shores this winter—2026 could be a landmark season for sea turtle protection! 🌊
Reference(s):
Hainan's Sansha welcomes island's 1st sea turtle eggs of 2026
cgtn.com
