Survey of Sea Turtle Nesting Activity along the Coastline of Ogun State

Sea turtles are globally threatened reptiles whose nesting beach requirements are increasingly compromised by coastal development, artificial lighting, and human disturbance. This study surveyed nesting activity, nest site selection, and threats to sea turtles along the coastline of Ogun State, South West Nigeria. Nightly patrols were conducted along 12 kilometres of beach at Badagry Extension and Iwopin beach over four months during the nesting season. Nests were located, measured, and tagged using GPS. Hatchling emergence success was monitored at a subset of nests. Community interviews were conducted with 45 beach residents and fishers to assess historical nesting trends and direct threats. Two sea turtle species were recorded: Dermochelys coriacea (leatherback) and Lepidochelys olivacea (olive ridley). A total of 27 nests were documented across both species, with leatherbacks accounting for 67 percent of nests. Nest site selection analysis showed preference for wide, dark, and undisturbed beach sections away from settlement lights. Overall hatchling emergence success averaged 61 percent, with human nest predation accounting for 28 percent of nest losses. Direct egg harvesting for consumption was confirmed through interviews as a significant threat. Artificial lighting from beach resorts was associated with documented adult disorientation in three cases. The study establishes a nesting database for Ogun State and recommends the implementation of community-based nest protection patrols and extension education on sea turtle conservation. Keywords: sea turtles, nesting survey, Dermochelys coriacea, Ogun State, conservation.