Turtling (hunting) - Poaching of Turtles in And Around Mexico

Poaching of Turtles in And Around Mexico

In Mexico sea turtles have been used for medicine, food and decoration since the 13th century. While hunting turtles is strictly forbidden in Mexico, approximately 35 000 turtles have been poached per year within the last decade around Baja California Mer. An estimated 65% of captured turtles are thought to be Green sea turtles, while 10% consist of the endangered Loggerhead sea turtle. The most common way poachers capture turtles is using a net designed specifically for turtles, and costs around 660$. The majority of the poachers are local fisherman, who earn approximately 78$ USD per week. The turtles are sold locally, or reach the international black market where they fetch a profit of 58$ USD per turtle.