(EMAILWIRE.COM, September 30, 2010 ) CELESTUN, MexicoEvery year, the Hawksbill turtles reach the coast of Celestún to lay their eggs. 2010 was not an exception. About 900 turtles have deposited their eggs in this secluded northern Gulf of Mexico shore. One of the favorite places is the beach of Hotel Eco Paraíso, where nature guide, Alexander Dzib Chay, has spotted 70 nests of endangered Hawksbill Turtles. Many arrive two or three times during their lifetime laying about 140 eggs every time. Of these eggs, only an average of 0.7% of the hatchlings survives, that means, that perhaps only one of these these hatchlings might make it to adulthood.
PRONATURA YUCATÁN, a local NGO, is responsible for rescuing the nests that are at risk of being swept away by waves and tides, or are endangered by human beings or animals such as dogs or opossums. The biologist in charge brings the eggs and buries them carefully in the corral specially built for security on the hotel property. After two months of incubation, once they hatch, the little turtles can be released at dawn by the hotels guests. Using this method, the biologists create an environmental awareness and educate both guests and staff on the importance of protecting these prehistoric organisms almost brought to the brink of extinction while instilling both the need and responsibility to rescue them.
There are no data on how efficient this rescue program is, but there is a strong belief that at least 1.5% to 2% survives which doubles the chance of survival.
Hotel Eco Paraiso Xixim, which features 24 individual cabanas all with private terraces overlooking expansive views of the Gulf of Mexico, was created within the ecologically sensitive area on the beautiful, 3-mile shell-filled, sandy beach. The area is a main feeding ground for the Pink Flamingo, many other sea birds as well as a breeding ground for the Hawksbill sea turtles. The property includes the newly constructed Restaurant Xixim and bar El Santuario plus a fresh water pool overlooking the Gulf. A wellness center includes a juice-therapy feature, massages and a gym. The resort offers multiple choices of local tours which allow guests to explore the archaeological wealth including the Mayan ruins at Uxmal as well as the unique ecosystem of the Yucatan. Hotel Eco Paraiso is best accessed through the international airport in Merida, which has flights direct from the U.S. as well as through Mexico City with arranged transfers. ###
CONTACT: Verena Gerber
TEL: + (52-55) 5135 1299
E-MAIL: verena@ecoparaiso.com
WEB: www.ecoparaiso.com
