Investigation of Marine Turtle Nesting Behavior Along Ondo State Coastline

Marine turtles are flagship species for coastal conservation, and their nesting sites require active protection from human disturbance, poaching, and coastal development. The coastline of Ondo State in Nigeria's South West geopolitical zone has been identified as a potential nesting habitat for leatherback and olive ridley sea turtles, yet systematic monitoring programs are absent. This study investigates nesting activity, nest density, and the primary threats to marine turtle populations along a 40 km stretch of the Ondo coastline between Igbokoda and Mahin. Nightly beach surveys were conducted over three months during the primary nesting season, using red-light torches to minimize disturbance. Tracks were classified by species based on width and crawl pattern, and nest locations were GPS-mapped. A total of 84 nesting emergences were recorded, attributable primarily to leatherback turtles. Nest poaching was observed directly in 18 instances, with egg harvest for consumption and trade confirmed. Bycatch in artisanal gill nets was reported by local fishers and represents an additional mortality source. The study recommends the establishment of a community-based turtle monitoring program involving trained local beach monitors, public awareness campaigns targeting egg poachers, and engagement with the Ondo State Environmental Sanitation Agency to designate nesting beaches as protected zones. These findings establish a baseline for future turtle population trend monitoring. Keywords: marine turtles, nesting behavior, Ondo State, South West Nigeria, coastal conservation