Marine Turtle Conservation - Nesting Beaches in South Lebanon, 2005

RAC/SPA

Marine Turtle Conservation in the Mediterranean

Population Status and Conservation Activities on Sea Turtle Nesting Beaches in South Lebanon, 2005

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Prepared by

Helen Cross* Charbel Rizk** Mona Khalil*** Lily Venizelos**** 22nd November 2006

*

Centre for Ecology, Evolution and Conservation (CEEC), University of East Anglia, UK helenclarecross@hotmail.com

**

MEDWETCOAST Project, Ministry of Environment, Lebanon.

*** MEDASSET Representative, Lebanon **** MEDASSET: 1C Licavitou St., 10672 Athens, Greece

crizk@moe.gov.lb medasset@medasset.org medasset@medasset.gr

Acknowledgements Within the framework of the implementation of UNEP’s Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) for the Conservation of Marine Turtles, a long-term monitoring programme of marine turtle nesting in Lebanon is being carried out by MEDASSET, the Mediterranean Association To Save the Sea Turtles, with the financial support of UNEP-MAP Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas (RAC/SPA); MEDASSET; and the Project for Conservation of Wetlands and Coastal Ecosystems in the Mediterranean Region, (MEDWETCOAST), managed in Lebanon by the Ministry of Environment.

This year’s research was carried out within the framework of MEDASSET’s conservation programme in the Eastern Mediterranean, with the aim of facilitating future management decisions that may safeguard the long-term existence of these critical nesting habitats and of training local individuals in the necessary skills for the protection and monitoring of marine turtles nesting on Lebanese shores.

We are grateful for the encouragement of many supporting groups in Lebanon: to the staff of the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve, especially to Rania Mroueh; the Appointed Protected Areas Committee; the municipality of Tyre, the Centre for the Socio-Economic Development of Fishermen (CARITAS), The Director of the Fishing Syndicate in Southern Lebanon, Mr Khalil Tahar, and all the fishermen who took part in the survey.

We would also like to thank Mr Atef Ouerghi, Marine Biologist, expert at RAC/SPA (MAP), Mrs Lena Yamout, Lebanon’s Focal Point for RAC/SPA and Ms Hiba Rteil of MEDWETCOAST, for their support throughout the project.

Special thanks to Ms Habiba Sayed for her volunteer fieldwork at El Mansouri. Our appreciation is extended to all field assistants for assuring safety during the early morning surveys: Jihad, Hamoudi, Ahmad, Hassan and Renoir; to all the volunteers who participated in beach protection and monitoring activities during the 2005 nesting season and to all the children and local people who patiently took part in our awareness and conservation talks.

Thanks go to the British Chelonia Group (BCG) for their continuing support of MEDASSET’s activities in Lebanon.

Grateful thanks to Stella Bell for help with the report text and design.

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Table of Contents 1.

1a.

1b.

2a.

2b.

2c.

3.

3a.

3b.

3c.

3d.

3e.

3f.

3g.

3h.

4.

4a.

4b.

5.

5a.

5b.

5c.

5d.

5e.

5f.

6.

7.

8.

INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................. 4 Status and Importance of Sea Turtles ................................................................. 4 i. In the Mediterranean ....................................................................................... 4 ii. In Lebanon ...................................................................................................... 5 iii.

International Conventions........................................................................... 6 Sea Turtle Biology .............................................................................................. 7 i. Sea Turtle Life Cycle ...................................................................................... 7 Location of Study Area....................................................................................... 9 i. El Mansouri................................................................................................... 10 ii. Tyre Coast Nature Reserve ........................................................................... 11 iii.

El Aabbassiye............................................................................................ 13 Methodology ..................................................................................................... 13 Results............................................................................................................... 14 i. Nesting Activity ............................................................................................ 14 ii. Nesting in South Lebanon (2002-2005)........................................................ 16 iii.

Mortality ................................................................................................... 17 iv.

Fishing Survey .......................................................................................... 17 CONSERVATION AWARENESS AND TRAINING ........................................ 21 Training............................................................................................................. 21 Night Patrol Tours............................................................................................. 21 Scout Groups..................................................................................................... 21 MoE/UNDP Day of Activities .......................................................................... 22 RSCN, Jordan ................................................................................................... 22 Fishing and Marine Ecosystems Committee..................................................... 22 Feedback .......................................................................................................... 23 Future Education Programme ........................................................................... 23 THREATS............................................................................................................. 24 On Land ............................................................................................................ 24 i. Tourist Development .................................................................................... 24 ii. Anthropogenic Impact .................................................................................. 24 iii.

Light Pollution .......................................................................................... 25 iv.

Vehicle Presence....................................................................................... 25 v. Beach Garbage .............................................................................................. 26 vi.

Beach Pollution......................................................................................... 26 At Sea................................................................................................................ 26 i. Boat Activities .............................................................................................. 26 ii. Fishing Activities .......................................................................................... 27 CONSERVATION RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SOUTH LEBANON......... 28 Action Plan........................................................................................................ 28 Legal protection (El Mansouri and El Aabbassiye).......................................... 28 El Mansouri....................................................................................................... 28 Tyre Coast Nature Reserve ............................................................................... 29 El Aabbassiye.................................................................................................... 30 Ongoing Sea Turtle Monitoring........................................................................ 30 CONCLUSION..................................................................................................... 32 REFERENCES ..................................................................................................... 34 PHOTO GALLERY.............................................................................................. 36 3

1.

INTRODUCTION

The importance of Lebanon's coasts for sea turtle nesting was discovered when in 2001 under the framework of MEDASSET's ongoing conservation programme in the Eastern Mediterranean (since 1990), a first survey to assess nesting potential took place.

Surveys along the entire Lebanese coast showed that nesting was sparsely distributed along parts of the northern coast and scattered on several developed beaches, but the southern nesting sites were found to be more important both nationally and regionally.

Loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) are widespread along the coast of Lebanon and medium-density nesting can be observed at specific sites throughout the Lebanese coastal belt. The green turtle (Chelonia mydas) is far less common and nesting is confined to the less developed areas of the south.

The 5 year monitoring project on El Mansouri beach and the 2 year monitoring at the Tyre Nature Reserve and 3 years at El Abbassiyeh beach, in collaboration with the Lebanese Ministry of the Environment's MEDWETCOAST Project and with support from RAC/SPA (UNEP/MAP) and the Marine Conservation Society (MCS) UK, have provided useful data, although long-term monitoring is required before population size can be accurately assessed. Nesting in South Lebanon ranges from 37-70 Caretta nests and from 0 -16 Chelonia nests per year.

This document reports on fieldwork conducted in 2005 on the beaches of the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve, El Mansouri and El Aabbassiye (see Figure 2). Critical beach habitats were monitored on a daily basis throughout the nesting season and Lebanese representatives were given training in conservation measures with the aim of providing them with the necessary skills to continue fieldwork and conservation work on their own in the future. Public awareness raising activities were conducted throughout the documented period, informing fishermen, youths and locals of the importance of the nesting turtles to themselves, their country, the Mediterranean and to the world.

1a.

Status and Importance of Sea Turtles

i.

In the Mediterranean

Three species of marine turtle, loggerhead (Caretta caretta), green (Chelonia mydas) and leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea) are encountered in the Mediterranean. Caretta and Chelonia nest there, and Dermochelys is an occasional visitor, entering through the Straits of Gibraltar in pursuit of its food, jellyfish.

Mediterranean loggerhead turtles nest predominantly in Turkey, Greece, Cyprus and Libya (Margaritoulis et al 2003; Laurent 1998), with much lower numbers nesting on the shores of Lebanon, Palestine, Israel, Egypt, and Tunisia. This species is classified worldwide as endangered under the IUCN Red List (IUCN, 2004). Total nesting effort of Caretta caretta in the Mediterranean ranges from 3,375-7,985 nests per season (Margaritoulis et al, 2003). However, these numbers are considered to be minimum figures, as they exclude nests outside monitored areas or in countries where regular monitoring has not yet begun (e.g. Libya).

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The green turtle, endangered throughout the world and critically endangered in the Mediterranean (IUCN, 2004) has a significantly smaller nesting population located on the beaches of Turkey, Cyprus (Kasparek et al., 2001) and Syria (Rees et al., in press).

Annual Chelonia mydas Mediterranean nesting effort ranges between 350 and 1,750 nests per year. An estimate of 115-580 nesting females per season can be calculated from this figure generated, by dividing nest numbers by 3, the estimated average number of nests a female lays each season (Kasparek et al., 2001).

On a global scale both species are mainly threatened by building development on their nesting habitats and by destructive fishing practices and pollution. (Spotila, 2004)

ii.

In Lebanon

The Lebanese coastline remains largely unmonitored (Kasparek, 2004), with the exception of the Palm Islands Reserve, Tyre Coast Nature Reserve, the bay of El Mansouri and El Aabbassiye beach. However, a survey of the entire Lebanese coast was conducted by MEDASSET in 2001 (Demirayak et al., 2002) and another in collaboration with the EU funded MSC-IPP Project in 2004 (Kasparek, 2004) to assess potential sea turtle nesting sites and nesting concentrations. In 2002 and 2003, surveys were conducted around El Mansouri (Newbury, 2002; St. John et al., 2004) and in 2004 at the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve, El Aabbasiye and El Mansouri (Aureggi et al, 2005). Surveys along the entire coast showed that nesting was sparsely distributed along parts of the northern coast and scattered on several developed beaches, but the southern nesting sites were found to be more important both in a national and regional context. Loggerhead turtles are widespread along the coast of Lebanon and medium-density nesting can be observed at specific sites throughout the Lebanese coastal belt. The green turtle is far less common and nesting is confined to the less developed areas of the south.

Along a 20 km stretch of coast, near Tyre town, three nesting sites have been deemed important for both of the Mediterranean nesting species (Table 1; Figure 2).

Beach El Aabbassiye TCNR El Mansouri Total

Length (m) Number of seasons 1,670 3 1,714 2 1,400 5 5,384

Survey type weekly* daily daily

Min – Max Caretta 42 – 101 01 – 92 334 – 511 37 - 70

Min – Max Chelonia 01 – 92 02 –11 01 – 63 0 – 16

Table 1. Estimation of annual nesting effort in South Lebanon. TCNR = Tyre Coast Nature Reserve.

Min - Max = number of nests per season. Data derived from: 2005 survey1; Aurregi et al., 20052; Khalil et al., in press3; St John et al., 20044; Newbury et al., 20025. *For 2003 and 2004 monitoring surveys were conducted weekly, 2005 was the first time they were conducted daily.

Aureggi et al (2005) reported that the entire Lebanese coast is believed to host between 21 and 100 loggerhead nests each year, but the minimum estimates have increased, following monitoring in the South of the country during the 2005 season. The number of nesting green turtles is significantly lower (as illustrated in table 1). Given that Mediterranean green turtle nesting females are thought to total between 115-580 nesting 5

individuals (Kasparek et al., 2001), that the distribution of nesting habitats is limited and that the species is classified as critically endangered, Lebanon’s contribution to the regional population is significant. Increased monitoring effort is required to produce more reliable figures for both species. As sea turtles usually nest at 2-3 year intervals, longterm data are required to make a reliable estimate of population size.

According to a recent survey of the entire Lebanese coast, (Kasparek, 2004) Southern Lebanon may prove to be of considerable importance to turtles within the Eastern Mediterranean. For more than 20 years the region has remained socially and economically isolated from the North. As tourists begin to return urban sprawl, uncontrolled private investment and poorly planned development projects are threatening this vulnerable and relatively undisturbed coastline (Newbury et al, 2002). With urban expansion, rural development and without legal protection and governmental support, Mediterranean sea turtle nesting habitats could soon become unavailable to the nesting turtles. Erosion (MEDASSET 2005), beach development (Demetropoulos 2000) and pollution pose some of the greatest threats to sea turtle nesting sites in the Mediterranean; observations of Lebanese nesting beaches suggest that Lebanon follows this pattern. By identifying, monitoring and protecting nesting beaches, so that they remain available for subsequent generations, and by safeguarding the offshore area, a viable population may be maintained and a contribution to the global species distribution may be ensured.

Offshore fishing activities often have an impact upon sea turtles, as they become trapped inside gill nets, bottom trawl nets or are caught by the hooks of drifting long lines (Gerosa and Casale, 1999). Furthermore, they may suffocate or starve as a result of the ingestion of plastic waste (Venizelos and Smith, 1998).

iii.

International Conventions

Several International Conventions contain provisions for the protection of marine turtles.

The most important are: • The Convention on International trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

• The Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (Bern Convention).

• The Convention for the Protection of the Mediterranean Sea against pollution (Barcelona Convention).

• The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) (Bonn Convention).

• The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) In 1975 at a meeting of representatives of 16 Mediterranean states in Barcelona the Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) was created. The Barcelona Convention was adopted a year later. It is the only convention to which all the riparian Mediterranean nations are signatories.

Parties to the Barcelona Convention included among their priority targets for the period 1985-1995 the protection of Mediterranean marine turtles (Genoa Declaration, September 6

1985). To this purpose, they adopted in 1989 the Action Plan for the Conservation of Mediterranean Marine Turtles.

Lebanon signed and ratified the UNEP Mediterranean Action Plan (UNEP/MAP) in 1975, the Convention on Biological Diversity in 1994 and the Barcelona Convention and its protocols and revised Action Plan for the conservation of marine turtles in 1999.

Lebanon is not a signatory to CITES, the Bern Convention or the Bonn Convention.

Within the MAP, recommended actions at National level were listed for each country (UNEPMAP RAC/SPA, 1999).

1b.

Sea Turtle Biology

Marine turtles are long-lived slow-maturing reptiles adapted to life in the aquatic environment. Apart from egg laying, which requires a suitable beach environment, most of their life cycle occurs at sea. Comprehensive studies of the nesting environment have been conducted globally, but marine habitat use remains poorly understood (Lutz and Musick, 1997)

i.

Sea Turtle Life Cycle

Adult females migrate from a foraging ground to a nesting beach (figure 1); this may be their own natal beach, which they locate, probably, by using an internal geomagnetic compass (Lohman et al 1997). Mating occurs during the migration, although mating areas are poorly defined.

Nesting tends to occur on sandy beaches, when clutches of eggs (average about 100 eggs) are deposited in the sand, usually at night, and left to incubate for about two months.

Females normally lay 2-3 clutches per year, depending upon species and geographical location. The nest environment is well understood (Miller 1997), as is temperaturerelated sex determination (TSD); a mechanism whereby males result from cooler incubation temperatures, and females from warmer temperatures. Global climate change may thus have a profound effect upon turtle reproduction.

Hatchlings emerge from the egg chamber, perhaps taking 3-7 days to reach the beach surface. They emerge mainly at night, either en masse or asynchronously in small groups, and orient towards the sea. Their sea-finding ability is mainly visual, and they search for the lowest brightest horizon, which on an unlit beach will be the surf zone.

Entering the water they swim rapidly offshore (swimming frenzy). Loggerheads have been found using convergence zones and drift lines in oceanic gyres (large circular currents) in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans; small juveniles from all other species have not yet been located and so their early development (“the lost years� Carr 1987) remains unclear. In the Mediterranean these juvenile developmental habitats and denatant migratory routes are completely unknown.

There is some evidence that adult females may return to their own natal beach for egg deposition, although this may not occur for several decades (Lohman et al 1997) 7

Nesting females are easily scared, especially during the early phases of nest construction, and may return to the sea without depositing eggs: this will impact further on an already endangered species. Females usually remain at sea - adjacent to their nesting beaches – during the inter-nesting period (typically nests are laid at two week intervals).

Adult females and hatchlings are affected by light pollution (Witherington and Martin 1996). Hatchlings are especially vulnerable to predation on beaches and at sea.

Vehicles may cause sand compaction above a nest, so that neonates are unable to reach the beach surface.

Figure 1. From Euroturtle website www.euroturtle.org

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2.

SURVEY OF THE SOUTH LEBANON NESTING BEACHES

2a.

Location of Study Area

The central point of the 2005 survey was the ancient Phoenician Port of Sour (Tyre); once the most important kingdom within the Mediterranean Sea (Figure 2: Map of Lebanon). There are presently some 250 artisanal fishing boats departing daily from the modern port of the city, to fish in the near-shore coastal zone. A community of approximately 600 fishermen support themselves through unregulated and often illegal fishing practices.

Fishing trade in and around the port of Tyre, remains substantial. Hundreds of families are supported through the sale and export of fish to regional and national markets.

However, the price of local catch is falling, as frozen imports from West Africa take over the market and there is less demand for fresh produce. Fishermen may be restricted by a lack of education, alternative skills and knowledge of anything other than these traditional fishing techniques, which have been passed down through the generations.

Figure 2 Map of Lebanon

The most important sea turtle nesting rookery identified in Lebanon so far is found in El Mansouri, a sandy bay with no official protection, located midway between the town of Tyre and the southern border. The beach has been monitored by Mona Khalil (MK) since 2002, who is MEDASSET’s in-country representative, a local resident/landowner. Her role includes monitoring and conducting daily fieldwork, conservation and community 9

awareness projects and developing a relationship with the local municipality, which is steadily generating support for the work involved.

It was not possible to collect data at night on nesting population parameters (e.g. morphometrics, nesting frequency and remigration intervals) for security reasons.

A further two beaches on the northern and southern beaches of Tyre have also been recognised as critical local sea turtle nesting habitats: a) Tyre Coast Nature Reserve situated south of the city was monitored for the second successive year (2004-2005). Work in the Reserve is a collaborative effort, between MEDASSET research team and the MEDWETCOAST Project run through the Ministry of Environment, Lebanon. The Ministry has appointed a committee, known as the Appointed Protected Areas Committee or APAC. The Director, Mahmoud Helewe, works for the local municipality. Other members include representatives: from the Municipality of Tyre, Tyre Administrative District, Ministry of Agriculture, and two local NGOs. Members are elected and reviewed through a private panel each year. They principally act as a guardianship body to the Reserve, employing workers and site assistants to protect and manage the area. b) El Aabbassiye beach is situated on the northern coast of Tyre, in the municipality of El Aabbassiye. In 2005 monitoring was conducted for the third consecutive nesting season.

For the first time the area was surveyed on a daily basis. This beach lacks official protective status and is extremely vulnerable to development particularly as the city of Tyre is expanding outwards to outlying villages.

Although Litani beach was also monitored on two occasions there was no evidence of nesting in 2005.

i.

El Mansouri

The bay of El Mansouri measures 1.4km in length and is located away from the village centre. A few farms and houses are located in its vicinity. The beach is very close to the southern border, as a result of which the beach has been protected from extensive disturbance and development.

The bay is divided into two sandy regions, separated by an extensive rocky platform in the centre, which limits turtle emergences to either end of the bay. A military outpost is located adjacent to the beach in the south and a large house is positioned on the beach front in the northern sector. (Figure 3: Map of El Mansouri Nesting beach) El Mansouri was first identified by MK as a turtle-nesting site in 1999. Since 2001 conservation activities have been conducted under the guidance of MEDASSET. El Mansouri is, to date, the most important nesting rookery for the loggerhead turtle in Lebanon. It is also an important nesting area for the critically endangered Mediterranean green turtle.

Daily recording of turtle activity and fieldwork began in 2002, when 37 loggerhead and 5 green turtle nests were observed (Newbury et al, 2002). The following year, nesting 10

continued with 33 Loggerhead turtle and 3 Green turtle nests (St John et al, 2004). In 2004 nesting activity increased; 43 Loggerhead nests were observed and 6 green turtle nests (Aureggi et al, 2005).

Figure 3: A plan of El Mansouri the most important nesting rookery in Lebanon from Newbury et al (2002)

ii.

Tyre Coast Nature Reserve

The Tyre Reserve achieved protective status in 1998 and comprises 2.3 km of coastline.

Two areas, encompassing different habitat types and known as the North and South, are separated by the Rachidieh Palestinian Settlement.

For monitoring purposes, the shore of the TCNR was divided into three sectors: Key points are defined as latitude and longitude in degrees and minutes (hddd°mm.mmm’) (from Aureggi et al, 2005).

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Sector A: (part of TCNR’s Tourism Zone) from the Rest House wall, northern end (N033°15.698’ – E035°12.423’), to the end of the beach kiosks (N033°15.371’ – E035°12.656’). Total length: 654m.

It consists of fine sand, mechanically compacted at the start of high season to install the kiosks. Sixty kiosks are located approximately 40m from the shoreline and there is a car park behind. Tables and chairs occupy a large beachfront area.

Sector B: (part of TCNR’s Tourism Zone) from the end of Sector A to the first fence indicating the start of the TCNR Conservation Zone (Sector C) (N033°15.201’– E035°12.710’). Total length: 320m.

Sector B consists of fine sand and is approximately 80m wide. Removal of dry sand enabled construction of a football ground approximately 50m from the sea. This area is utilised for recreation and camping.

Sector C: (TCNR Conservation Zone) from the end of sector B to the fence that delimitates the Rachidieh camp (N 033°14.794’ – E 035°12.740’). Total length: 740m.

This beach sector corresponds to the reserve’s Conservation Zone, and therefore, remains natural. It consists of fine sand with a small vegetation covered sand dune. There is a small wetland at the back of the beach.

Figure 4: The Tyre Coast Nature Reserve from the Destination Lebanon website at: http://www.lebanondestination.com/reserves/TyreCoast/establishme nt.asp

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A total of 60 restaurant kiosks operated on the beach this summer. These are collapsible beach huts which are erected every summer, in sector A of the beach – the tourist zone.

They are removed by the municipality in September. The municipality charges the restaurant proprietors; huts situated in the centre of the beach are considered prime location and cost more.

The number of huts has reduced over the last 2 years from an initial 80 restaurants, following the MedWetCoast project’s lobbying of the Tyre City Municipality. The distance between kiosks and the shoreline has also increased over the last three seasons, minimising the effects of light pollution on sea turtles.

2005 was the second year of monitoring in the TNCR. In 2004 nine loggerhead nests were observed, but no green turtle nests.

iii.

El Aabbassiye

El Aabbassiye measures 1.67 km in length. The beach boasts the only undisturbed sand dune system in the whole of the country. The area consists of white and fixed grey dunes with dune thickets, comprising a habitat type that does not occur elsewhere in Lebanon and hosts a diverse array of flora and fauna (Kasparek, 2004). The beach is lacking any form of official protective status and is threatened by land ownership disputes and development plans for the area.

Monitoring on the beach began in 2003, when a total of 1 green and 6 loggerhead turtle nests were reported (St John et al; 2004). Nesting increased the following year with 9 green turtle and 4 loggerhead turtle nests recorded (Aureggi et al, 2005).

2b.

Methodology

Work during the 2005 nesting season aimed to investigate threats to populations of the loggerhead and green turtle species along the Lebanese coast, while promoting a wider public understanding of the importance of sea turtles within the region.

Morning monitoring surveys were conducted daily at El Mansouri by MK, between May 20th and September 15th, 2005 and at Tyre Coast Nature Reserve (TCNR) and El Aabbassiye by co-author Helen Cross (HC) with staff from TCNR, between 17th June and 26th September. The MedWetCoast project employed two Lebanese men as drivers for the sea turtle conservation project. In addition to accompanying HC during early morning monitoring they were given training and were actively involved in (a) observation of sea turtle nesting activity, (b) appropriate protection of the nests and (c) collecting viable data throughout the sea turtle nesting season. Survey work began at 6am before tracks were erased by people’s footsteps and was carried out by a minimum of two people.

•

Data were collected relating to the number of tracks found and the species of turtle with which they were identified: Loggerhead turtle tracks are asymmetrical in appearance; green turtle tracks are symmetrical and significantly larger.

•

Tracks were then classified as resulting in a ‘nest’ or an ‘emergence’.

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A nest is identified through an extensive dry sand camouflage which a turtle flicks over the nesting area before returning to the sea. Nest identification is confirmed through probing into the sand with a long stick, which pierces into the top of the egg chamber. When applied gently, it is possible for an experienced researcher to identify the egg chamber without disturbing the underlying eggs.

An emergence refers to a turtle emerging from the water on to the beach, but then failing to nest (often due to disturbance or unsuitable substrate) she returns to the sea. This is identified through observation of a continuous track away from and back into the water, commonly punctuated by holes in the sand where the turtle has attempted to dig her egg chamber.

•

Predator tracks were also recorded.

•

Nests were identified and marked and their positions measured in relation to beach landmarks. Measurements were made using a 30 metre long tape measure.

The distance between the egg chamber and the vegetation line was recorded.

•

Egg chambers were then covered with a metal grid placed over the egg chamber area; the sides of the mesh were then secured into the sand using wooden sticks gathered on the beach.

NOTE: Metal grids were designed and ordered but the manufacturing and delivery process took approximately 1 month.

•

Nest sites were checked daily for signs of predation, disturbance and hatching.

2c.

Results

i.

Nesting Activity

Observations of nesting activity, during the 2005 season, offer further insight into annually changing spatial and temporal patterns of turtle populations.

In El Mansouri there were 51 loggerhead turtle nests and 57 emergences were observed; No green turtles emerged or nested on the beach.

Only one turtle nested on the Tyre Coast Reserve (a marked decrease in nesting effort in comparison to 2004), however, this one nest (on the 11th July) was laid by the critically endangered green turtle: the first documented green turtle nest on Tyre beach. The nest was observed inside the Tyre Coast Conservation Zone; sector C of the reserve beach. On the 26th September 2005, 53 hatchling tracks were recorded on the beach in the nest area.

In El Aabbassiye, a total of 17 loggerhead turtle emergences were recorded between 17th June (the start of the MedWetCoast Project monitoring) and the 7th September.

On the first early morning survey, it became evident that nesting activity had already 14

started. Three possible nest sites were observed and judging by the level of sand movement and track degradation all 3 appeared to be over two days old. Because of this no excavations were made to check. Later in the season, as hatchlings were not observed exiting these sites, it must be assumed that these were only nesting attempts.

Over the 10 weeks following the first morning survey, 10 nests were recorded on the beach and the distance was measured between egg chamber and vegetation line (according to the previously described methodology).

Distance to Vegetation (m)

Nesting Events on El Aabbassiye, 2005 and the Distance Between Egg Chamber and Vegetation 25 20 15 10 5 0 26.06

29.06

4.07

6.07

9.07

11.07

18.07

Date

Figure 5: Distances between nest sites and vegetation line on El Aabbassiye beach The marker posts from the nests disappeared in early July before the protective wire meshing had been delivered. This made precise positioning of the nests impossible. This situation was further exacerbated by vehicles driving across the sand, altering the natural beach top sand profile.

After one month five of the nests had been predated by foxes and roaming dogs. The wire meshing was placed over the estimated positions of the remaining nests, which proved effective in preventing further dogs from burrowing into the egg chamber area. Average hatching success rate from the remaining protected nests was 65% with a calculated average clutch size of 86 eggs (Table 2).

Total number of eggs in Number of empty shells % of eggs (from total nest clutch) that hatched 99 65 66 86 46 53 79 58 73 82 68 83 84 41 49 430 / average per nest 86 278 65% Table 2: Nest hatching success rate from the 5 remaining nests on El Aabbassiye beach

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Species El Mansouri Tyre Coast Reserve El Aabassiye 51 0 10 Caretta caretta 0 1 0 Chelonia mydas Table 3: Total nesting events during the 2005 season in Southern Lebanon Table 3 and Figure 6 illustrate the observed nesting events of 2005 on El Mansouri, Tyre Reserve and El Aabbasiye beaches. These results are perhaps better displayed in the context of ‘Total nesting to date in South Lebanon’ (Figure 7).

Total number of nests

Total Observed Nesting Activity in Southern Lebanon, 2005 60

Loggerhead turtle

50

Green turtle

40 30 20 10 0 El Mansouri

El Aabbassiye

Tyre Coast Nature Reserve

Figure 6: Observed nesting activity on monitored beaches, 2005

ii.

Nesting in South Lebanon (2002-2005)

The distribution of nests shows great fluctuation between sites for both species, further monitoring is needed before any underlying trends can be identified.

2002 2003 2004 2005

El Aabassiye El Mansouri Tyre Coast Reserve C.Caretta C.Mydas C.Caretta C.Mydas C.Caretta C.Mydas 37 5 33 3 6 1 43 6 9 0 4 9 51 0 0 1 10 0 Table 4: Total observed nesting events to date, in Southern Lebanon

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Total Number of Observed Turtle Nesting Events in Lebanon Since 2002

Number of Nests

70

C.Caretta Nests C.Mydas Nests

60 50 40 30 20 10 0 Year 2002 - 2005

Figure 7: Observed trends in nesting occurrences

iii.

Mortality

A total of 8 dead loggerhead turtles were observed in the survey area during the season although it is likely that other fatalities occurred. Five turtles were found washed ashore on the two nesting beaches, all of which were adults with an average curved carapace length (CCL) of 79 cm. A further two were found on a public beach in the City of Tyre and the eighth was reported floating inside the port.

Only one carapace was missing. This suggests that turtle exploitation for sale of the shell is not the driving force behind these deaths. There was no evidence of entanglement in ghost nets (discarded fishing gear); the exact cause of death was unknown owing to extensive decomposition which prevented an autopsy.

iv.

Fishing Survey

Using questionnaire surveys, local fishermen were consulted about their experiences at sea, relationships with turtles and working conditions.

Of the 250 working out of the port of Tyre, 65 fishermen were randomly selected for interview between the hours of 9am and 12pm and 3 and 7pm. Interpretation was provided by one of the drivers/morning surveyors, Mohammed Mroueh. A total of 15 questions were asked; relating to life-history, work and views on the environment.

Of the 65 questioned, 58 held licences for fishing with a traditional artisanal gill net, suggesting that the gill net is the most frequently used fishing method for fishermen operating out of the port of Tyre. Of the 58 fishermen using gill nets, only 9 fished by this method alone.

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The second most common fishing method is the long line; 41% of all questioned held licences for both the gill net and long line. 23% of all fishermen in the survey used the four major techniques employed in this region: the gill net, long line, compressor (or traditional diving equipment) and harpoon.

The overwhelming majority of fishermen reported sighting sea turtles everyday (Figure 8), specifying that turtles are seen in sandy offshore areas.

How often do you see turtles?

Never Daily Weekly Monthly

Figure 8: Frequency of sea turtle sightings at sea during the nesting season When fishermen were asked to estimate the number of sea turtles seen in offshore waters during the nesting season, their answers ranged between 20 and 10,000! This appeared to have been influenced by the time of day at which fishing was undertaken and by the area visited. Fishermen, who worked at night and returned before dawn, confessed to having little knowledge of how many turtles there were or where they could be seen. Similarly, those who worked close to the port felt unable to give detailed information. The fishermen who left before daybreak and travelled further, offered the widest range of population estimates.

There may have been many factors which influenced fishermen to overestimate sea turtle numbers; these could include among other things (i) justification of the use of destructive fishing practices (DFP) – if the fishermen reported numbers of sightings as high, fishing activity could not be said to be having a detrimental effect on turtle populations, so would draw attention away from illegal fishing practices; and (ii) resentment at the interest shown in sea turtle conservation when fishermen themselves were experiencing social and economic hardship.

Several offshore sites were mentioned in the survey, where turtles may be found during the summer months. These were located in close proximity to the nesting beaches and in sandy offshore areas. However, it is not known whether these grounds are (a) frequented regularly by turtles, (b) the places visited most commonly by fishermen, or (c) both.

An overall majority of the fishermen in this survey believed that dynamite fishing was wrong. Reasons included (a) that it is against the law, (b) that it poisons the sea and (c) that it destroys all fish.

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Of the 65 fishermen interviewed, 43% claimed that responsibility for repairing nets following entanglement with a turtle was theirs; 27% thought that the government should pay. 92% of fishermen who took part in the survey expressed concern over the state of fishing and rapidly declining fish stocks, although none mentioned turtles as a possible cause for this. With some fishermen claiming that the sea turtle population in the area was as high as 10,000 during the summer, turtles consuming fish should logically have been cited as an important factor contributing to the low fish catch in the area. Instead, fishermen blamed the growing number of unskilled people joining their profession, in pursuit of employment and economic benefits. A number of other problems were identified; these were most commonly related to the lack of enforcement over illegal fishing methods: Although dynamite fishing is prohibited and net mesh size is regulated by law, lack of enforcement remains a problem.

Fishermen were asked how life could be improved for them. As this was an open question, they were asked to state their views and frequently more than one answer was given. Therefore in figure 10 numbers given are a proportion of the total responses, not a proportion of the total number of fishermen questioned.

How can life be improved for fishermen?

Law Insurance Restrict fishing season Reduce frozen fish imports Alternative employment Loans Independent market Reduce number fishermen Change boats/nets Breed fish Provide radios

Figure 10: Fishermen’s suggestions for improving their lives.

Improving the effectiveness of law enforcement at sea was the most common response, including controlling destructive fishing practices; dynamiting, illegal nets and compressor devices. The second most common response was the need for insurance, as 19

respondents felt that this would enable equipment to be repaired when damaged. They also felt that they would not have to fish in exceptionally bad weather. The third most common response was that fishing activity should be restricted during the spawning seasons, in March/April and August, claiming that it would allow fish populations to recover as fish would not be removed from the water with a ‘belly full of eggs’. This showed not only a sensitivity to the problems of over fishing but also gave a practical solution.

Five of the 65 fishermen questioned wanted to see imports of fish reduced. One suggested this could be achieved through the introduction of a tax on imports of $1/kg with the money raised going to Lebanese fishermen. Some suggested that alternative livelihoods should be encouraged and that education among the fishing community was important. Four thought that an independent market would allow fishermen to sell directly to their customers and avoid paying money to traders.

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3.

CONSERVATION AWARENESS AND TRAINING There are a number of educational institutions, governmental and non-governmental bodies involved in developing sea turtle conservation awareness in Lebanon.

MedWetCoast is a regional UNDP project active in six Mediterranean countries. It has been responsible for protecting and managing a number of reserve systems throughout Lebanon. The MedWetCoast Project has encouraged ecology students and recent graduates to involve themselves in ecotourism training; the government-funded Marine Research Centre in Tripoli offers courses in coastal and marine sciences and work placements. Biologists from the University of Balamand in Northern Lebanon have implemented and sustained a tagging programme at the Palm Islands Reserve in the north. Studies focussing on marine ecology, conservation and biodiversity awareness seem to be progressively filtering through the academic centres of Lebanon and with further government support should encourage a new generation of specialists.

3a.

Training

During the monitoring season two local people were trained in methodological procedures: Jihad, a geographer/tourism specialist with extensive knowledge of the local area and Mohammed, a university undergraduate in environmental engineering. They were recruited through advertising arranged by the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve. Both participated extensively in turtle nesting monitoring during the season as well as being employed as drivers for MEDASSET by the MedWetCoast project. Most importantly, both expressed an interest in continuing this work in the future. Another university undergraduate, Renoir, also recruited by the TCNR, who is currently studying biochemistry, showed great interest in the work and frequently participated as a volunteer during the early morning surveys.

3b.

Night Patrol Tours

In addition to early morning monitoring, a number of visiting tourist groups accompanied HC’s 2-hour night patrols (11pm-1pm) to the beach of El Aabbassiye. Interested parties contacted the Ministry of the Environment, and arrangements were made. An introductory talk was given (which included beach conduct guidelines), relating to sea turtle biology, threats and conservation measures. A total of 6 groups took part in these excursions. On one occasion a nesting loggerhead turtle was observed. All groups included English speakers, which allowed for communication without a translator.

3c.

Scout Groups

Three groups, each consisting of 16 scouts, visited the Tyre Nature Reserve during the season. Groups camped for a weekend, within the tourist zone of the beach and were involved in a number of beach cleaning activities within the conservation zone. The groups ranged from 12-14, 14-16 and 16-18 years of age.

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3d.

MoE/UNDP Day of Activities

During a Day of Activities organised by the Ministry of the Environment and the UNDP on Tyre beach, HC organised and manned the stall assisted by Rania Mroueh of the Tyre Reserve. This partnership ensured that questions directed by non-English speakers could be answered. The display included posters, leaflets, maps of the local area and sea turtle information. A sand egg chamber was constructed and filled with white plastic balls – to represent the sea turtle eggs. Information and advice was given out and discussions were held throughout the afternoon.

3e.

RSCN, Jordan

In July the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature in Jordan (RSCN) visited Tyre, to discuss a funding proposal put to them by the MedWetCoast project. This provided an opportunity for discussion between the RSCN and the Tyre Reserve Committee about the potential promotion of conservation activities in the region of Tyre for Jordanian ecotourists, particularly regarding tourist involvement in sea turtle activities (night patrols, early morning surveys, etc.). Both parties felt that the “turtle tourism” ideas discussed had great potential for visitors to Lebanon, so long as activities were carefully planned and well organised.

3f.

Fishing and Marine Ecosystems Committee

In August the Ministry of Environment, Tyre Coast Nature Reserve and MEDASSET initiated a series of meetings with representatives from the Municipality of Tyre, the UNDP, the Ministry of Agriculture; the Centre for the Socio-Economic Development of Fishermen and the Fishing Syndicate of Southern Lebanon with the aim of forming a Committee which would be primarily involved in issues relating to fish stocks, fishing and environmental conservation. This new committee, which is yet to be named, met regularly throughout the season and will carry on meeting in the future to discuss problems relating to fishing and the marine ecosystem in Tyre.

To date, the Committee has acted to create an independent market for fishermen within the municipality. From the perspective of sea turtle conservation, it is hoped that this market will only be accessible to fishermen who undertake legal or non-destructive fishing practices. One member of the Committee is also a representative on the APAC for Tyre Reserve and will ensure that issues relating to turtle conservation in the area are addressed.

The meetings of the Committee provided an opportunity for building and developing links between members of several governmental and public sector bodies. During the preliminary summer meetings, HC and Charbel Rizk (CR) introduced the group to the subject of sea turtle conservation in Lebanon, outlining existing threats to the turtles and their nesting habitats in the Tyre area. CR and Rania Mroeh of the Tyre Reserve provided translation.

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3g.

Feedback

Prior to departure of HC, a meeting was held for the Tyre Coast Reserve APAC, during which the season’s nesting activity and future direction was discussed. The aim of this meeting, which occurs each year, is to maintain good relations between the Reserve and MEDASSET and provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns that may have arisen during the monitoring season. At the 2005 end-of season meeting HC received very positive feedback from the Reserve staff who requested that MEDASSET continue to work with the Reserve at all nesting habitats in Lebanon.

3h.

Future Education Programme

MEDASSET’s Educational Kit ‘The Mediterranean Sea A source of Life’, recently published in Arabic, could be used in the future to enhance awareness of sea turtle conservation issues in Lebanese school children. The Kit aims to engage 6-12 year old children and instil in them knowledge and environmental values. The package portrays the richness of the region’s natural heritage and the threats it faces as well as the multicultural inheritance of the Mediterranean Peoples.

The RAC/SPA (UNEP/MAP) ‘Sea Turtle Handling Guide for Fishermen’ (Gerosa & Aureggi, 2001a) could form the basis for an educational programme for fishermen.

Available in Arabic, the waterproof guide provides simple and practical illustrated advice, enabling fishermen to deal with those turtles unfortunate enough to get caught in their gear. Many thousands become entangled each year. RAC/SPA (UNEP/MAP)’s teaching guide (Gerosa & Aureggi 2001b), which accompanies the Fishermen’s Handling Guide is not yet available in Arabic.

Activity Tourist groups/ visitors Ozone Awareness Day (Sea turtle awareness stall)

Scout Group Visits Jordanian NGO Visit Light Pollution Assessment

Purpose Night Surveys (weekly) Awareness raising (Answering queries, leaflet distribution, map displays and discussion) Awareness raising Promotion of turtle ecotourism Awareness/ conservation assessment Awareness/ conservation Progress Report/ Feedback

Location El Aabbassiye On Tyre beach

Tyre Coast Nature Reserve Tyre Coast Nature Reserve Tyre Coast Nature Reserve

Survey of Fishermen Tyre Port End of Season Presentation Tyre Reserve Office to APAC Training local scientists in Training during early Early morning Surveys – El sea turtle monitoring morning surveys Aabbassiye, El Mansouri methods (capacity building) and Tyre beaches Table 5: Summarising target groups, aims and locations of public awareness activities conducted in southern Lebanon during the 2005 nesting season 23

4.

THREATS

4a.

On Land

Threats i. Tourist Development ii. Anthropogenic Impact iii. Light Pollution iv. Vehicle Presence v. Beach Erosion vi. Beach Garbage vii. Beach Furniture viii. Predation ix. Pollution x. Discarded Fishing Gear xii. Animal Grazing xiii. Sand Extraction

El Mansouri X X X X X X X X X X

TNCR X X X X X X X

El Aabbassiye X X X X X X X

X X

X X X X X Table 6 summarises the threats to turtle nesting on South Lebanon nesting beaches.

i.

Tourist Development

Since the year 2000, the economic and security situation in Lebanon has slowly improved. People are gradually returning to the South, where they can find undeveloped beautiful sandy beaches. Because economic development is the priority, however, conservation often takes a back seat.

Paradoxically, tourism development often destroys the very resource on which it depends, namely a beautiful unspoilt environment. The inevitable degradation of the beaches which comes with the development of tourism represents one of the greatest threats to the nesting turtles in the Mediterranean and this is also true in Tyre, El Aabbasiye and El Mansouri.

Through the encouragement of ecotourism, which is sensitive to both environmental and community development needs, the negative impacts of tourist development could be reduced.

ii.

Anthropogenic Impact

Currently, there is very little information available on the beaches to the public explaining about the nesting turtles and there are no rules controlling access to the beaches at night. Human presence can be detrimental to turtles nesting, as adult turtles are extremely sensitive to movement and will return to the sea should they encounter anything they perceive to be a threat. Hatchlings may become trapped or suffocate 24

before they have the chance to emerge if sand is compacted on top of the egg chamber.

In the absence of information signs at the entrance to the beaches, such disturbance is bound to continue. There is an urgent need to control night time access to nesting areas in order to maximise the number of nesting attempts and secure future survival of this population.

iii.

Light Pollution

Lights which shine onto the nesting beach need to be controlled, as these act as a deterrent to females emerging. Light also distracts hatchlings; who become disorientated and frequently embark on a path towards the light source rather than towards the sea.

A pilot light assessment study of Tyre beach was conducted during the 2005 season by HC. All 60 business kiosks and restaurants were visited over a two week period and a questionnaire conducted, surveying the managers/owners. Translation was provided by the morning surveyor/driver, Mohammed Mroueh. Interviewees were asked if they were aware that the Tyre beach was a sea turtle nesting area, if they had ever seen a turtle and if they were aware of how disruption to turtle nesting might be prevented. The respondents were then asked how many lights their businesses had – colour, style and type of light fitting were all recorded. Finally, they were asked if they might consider reducing the light pollution from their restaurant by (i) decreasing the number of light fittings, (ii) using a light shade or (iii) changing the bulb colour to a non-white variable (yellow, red or green).

All interviewees agreed that they would be glad to comply with either a change in colour or style (light shade). However, the question of who would pay for these alterations and whether they would be made compulsory remained. Results are being processed and will be conveyed to the Tyre Reserve APAC. Further similar light assessments must be conducted in El Mansouri and El Aabbassiye.

This should include census reports detailing the number, type, location and custodian of artificial light sources visible from the nesting beaches. Property managers, tenants and owners could then be provided with details of how to make alterations to problematic light sources.

The most effective measure to combat light pollution would be to eliminate unnecessary sources of light pollution near the nesting beach during the nesting and hatching season.

However, alternative options include reducing the wattage of lights, redirecting the glare from the bulb, using a light shield or replacing the bulb with a red light. All of these changes would reduce the impact of lights on nesting beaches and sea turtles.

iv.

Vehicle Presence

Vehicles not only cause disturbance on the beaches at night by distracting nesting turtles with their noise and headlights, deterring females from nesting; but they can also cause sand compaction above the egg chamber. This can cause hatchling turtles to become 25

trapped inside the nest. Similarly, hatchlings on their way from the nest to the water can easily become stranded in the ruts caused by tyre treads. Banning vehicles on nesting beaches (May-September) is the best option, although may be impractical as the Coastguard regularly patrol the beach in four wheel drive vehicles.

v.

Beach Garbage

Litter on the beach causes a number of problems for nesting turtles and hatchlings. It can act as a barrier, making journeys to and from the sea difficult. It also attracts predatory animals, which are then more likely to predate turtle nests.

While regular litter collections should be encouraged, it is important that this is done manually without a vehicle driving on the nesting beach, as this causes a further threat to the nesting turtles and hatchlings (see Vehicle Presence). On El Aabbassiye irregular litter collections were made during the season by the municipality, but tractors were used.

Following lobbying of the El Mansouri Municipality by Mona Khalil, a refuse collector has been employed on the nesting beach there.

vi.

Beach Pollution

Lebanon is suffering from extensive beach pollution as discarded rubbish becomes trapped in near-shore currents and is re-deposited on the shore. Vast amounts of plastic, glass, discarded fishing gear, manufactured and industrial debris collect on the beaches every year. This rubbish can interfere with turtles when trying to dig a nest or trap hatchlings on the beach on their way to the sea following their emergence from the nest.

A number of unregulated sewage pipes dispel waste into the sea, outside the Rachidieh Palestinian camp and on the southern area of Aabbassiye beach. Each summer, a research group from the Marine Research Centre in Tripoli, north Lebanon, conducts water pollution surveys along the coast. Results from Tyre have shown that levels of bacteria and faecal coliforms do not exceed the national standardised levels required for safe bathing. These surveys do however, appear limited to tourist sectors of the beach and do not for example, include the sea shore near to the Rachidieh Palestinian camp, where untreated waste is dumped directly into the sea due to the lack of infrastructure and/or waste disposal facilities.

4b.

At Sea

i.

Boat Activities

Speeding boats used for water sports are potentially harmful during the nesting season and could be restricted using zoning techniques.

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ii.

Fishing Activities

Sea turtles are affected directly and indirectly by fishing activity. It is important that efforts are made in the area to eliminate the use of dynamite and fishing nets with illegal mesh size. The most effective course of action from a sea turtle conservation perspective would be to ban fishing in the near-shore zone during the nesting season. However, as many families in the area are dependent on fishing for their income, this would be difficult to enforce without financial compensation. Fishing further offshore is not an option because it requires more fuel (which is unaffordable to the subsistence level fishing community) and purchasing refrigeration/cold storage facilities which is also extremely costly.

Instead a comprehensive educational programme should be designed to outline handling techniques for turtles caught in nets as by-catch. This could be accompanied by an education programme for fishermen, which would encourage them to discuss and explore the concept of an ecologically healthy and diverse ecosystem. The importance of sea turtles within this system would be stressed. With the recently published Arabic version of the Sea Turtle Handling Guide for Fishermen by RAC/SPA there is enormous potential for developing such programmes.

Both HC and MK reported regularly hearing explosions during morning monitoring sessions, suggesting that dynamite was being used for fishing. Although this is illegal, enforcement of the law is difficult.

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5.

CONSERVATION RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SOUTH LEBANON

5a.

Action Plan

During the 2005 nesting season, an ‘Action Plan’ for the future conservation of sea turtles in Lebanon was compiled. This document was a collaboration between all field researchers who have participated in monitoring marine turtles on Lebanon’s southern shores since 2001, and the MedWetCoast Project. The result is a concise and comprehensive plan, addressing problems which are known to obstruct the conservation effort in Lebanon. The final version of the report will soon be presented to the Ministry of Environment in Lebanon.

5b.

Legal protection (El Mansouri and El Aabbassiye)

The three beaches included in the 2005 survey, all showed significant signs of sea turtle nesting activity. El Mansouri beach remained the most important rookery within the country. Tyre Coastal Nature Reserve hosted its first green turtle nest and El Aabbassiye remained of significant importance in the southern region. However, of these three beaches only the Tyre Coast Nature Reserve is formally protected.

El Mansouri and El Aabbassiye desperately need to be recognised as critical sea turtle nesting habitats. There appears to be a great need to integrate the concerns associated with these habitats as nesting areas, with local land-use plans (i.e.

Integrated Coastal Zone Management Plans – ICZM).

Ideally, El Mansouri and El Aabassiye should be designated as Specially Protected Areas following extensive consultation with all stakeholders to ensure their active support and to inform them of the potential benefits of such a move. This would help to create a locally supported reserve network system around the city of Tyre, encompassing sand dune systems, wetlands and critical sea turtle nesting beach areas.

Only by legally protecting these beaches can the loss of the nesting habitat to developers be prevented. However, this protective status needs to be enforced through an extensive system of environmentally sensitive planning restrictions, which draw attention to the needs and requirements of sea turtle nesting in the area without antagonising the local population.

5c.

El Mansouri

The southern beach of El Mansouri remains the most important coastal area in the country for sea turtle nesting activity (Kasparek, 2004). This rookery supports both loggerhead and green turtles. Future development of tourism in this area seems certain.

Carefully designed management and conservation strategies must remain a priority in protecting this nesting habitat. In addition, current monitoring and predation prevention 28

measures need to be supported with personnel and arrangements made for future research plans.

Lights which shine onto the beach at night should be screened during the nesting season and arrangements made for barriers to be erected to prevent vehicles from driving on the beach. Tighter controls should be imposed with respect to sand extraction. Following lobbying of the local municipality by MK at El Mansouri, a daily rubbish collection on the beach has been established. This will help to discourage predatory dogs. An adequate number of rubbish bins need to be provided and emptied regularly.

Informational signs should be constructed at beach access points, informing people about the turtles and their status. A regular local school awareness program would ensure that people remain informed of the conservation effort. Finally, it seems that destructive fishing practices in the area will be most effectively controlled through installing a Coastguard or responsible body for the monitoring of this activity alone.

5d.

Tyre Coast Nature Reserve

All access points to the Nature Reserve conservation zone need to be closed or controlled, with limited daytime access only. Information and warning signs should be provided for visitors, at the major beach access points. Vehicular access to the beach should be prohibited, 24 hours a day during the nesting and hatching seasons. All of these efforts would be most effectively controlled through the employment of a guard to patrol and observe the Reserve area during the nesting season.

Lights need to be screened (from the main road, car parking area, adjacent hotels and nearby kiosks) during the nesting and hatching seasons. This is especially important for the stadium-style lights, which are sited along the road at the back of the beach.

Regular monitoring should continue in this area. This seems especially important, given the low number of nests observed during 2005. Observations during future years may determine whether the low nesting activity of 2005 was an unusual occurrence or part of a natural cycle. The beach area could also be demarcated with wooden numbered posts at 100 m. intervals, which would enable nests to be accurately positioned within specific beach sections.

Advice and guidance should be given to the ‘Appointed Protected Areas Committee of the Tyre Nature Reserve’ enabling them to design their own education and awareness programmes. Environmental mitigation and monitoring measures should be implemented at proposed coastal points. Manual cleaning of the beach on a daily basis must be encouraged, large rubbish bins should be provided throughout the beach and these need to be emptied daily (not using motor vehicles) to discourage predators. Finally, some kind of educational programme should be implemented, perhaps with the help of a nongovernmental organisation informing the fishermen of Rachidie Palestinian settlement about the sea turtles and their importance for the marine system.

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5e.

El Aabbassiye

It is hoped that following the MoE’s consideration of MEDASSET’s ‘Marine Turtle Conservation and Action Plan’ a Specially Protected Area will be established around El Aabbassiye. Extending the protected area to the north would also ensure protection for the scattered sandy coves between Tyre and the Litani River (stretching 10 kilometres from the city). In this way, all sandy bays in the area where random nesting may occur will be protected. A careful assessment of potential habitats’ flora and fauna will help to define the areas in need of protection.

Sand dunes play an important role in protecting wildlife habitat. They are vital to the coast, acting as a vast, natural sediment bank. An intact sand dune forms a barrier that protects the beach. In addition, high and healthy dunes located behind nesting beaches block artificial light sources from nearby roads and development. Preventing their slow erosion and destruction from human activities is a priority. El Aabbassiye hosts the only significant sand dune complex in Lebanon, which comprise white dunes and fixed grey dunes with dune thickets (Kasparek, 2004). This habitat type does not occur elsewhere in Lebanon and should be recognised as a high conservation priority.

The dunes may be protected and rehabilitated through the use of fencing and “Keep Off” signs. By constructing wooden walkways above the dune surface at key beach access points and by encouraging people to use them, the threat of further erosion would be considerably reduced. It may be possible to encourage an existing local conservation group from El Aabbassiye to get involved in this activity.

Furthermore, this area has very high nesting potential for marine turtles with both loggerhead and green turtles recorded as nesting there. Land tenure issues need to be clarified and the question of private and public lands addressed, in the area immediately surrounding the beach.

A year on year monitoring programme should continue beyond the 2005 season, including the protection of nests from wild and domestic predators. The area requires an extensive manual cleaning operation. This should be followed up with the distribution of large litter bins and regular manually conducted refuse collection throughout the area.

Nests on the beach are threatened by a high number of feral dogs that are often present on the beach during the nesting season; rubbish must be regularly collected to reduce scavenging.

5f.

Ongoing Sea Turtle Monitoring

The satellite tagging of turtles in Lebanon, would allow identification of their postnesting movements, migratory routes, feeding grounds and breeding areas. Tagging workshops and tagging programmes could be implemented at El Mansouri, El Aabbassiye and Tyre Reserve. This would enhance the data collection for each nesting beach and should commence as soon as a long-term commitment to population monitoring is established. Tagging provides an opportunity for long-term trends in the status of a nesting population to be revealed. It acts as a means of identifying adult individuals within the population, recording their inter-nesting intervals and studying 30

their nesting success over time. Careful selection of tag style is necessary as certain types (e.g. plastic Roto) increase the risk of entanglement in fishing gear.

A “Marine Turtle Rehabilitation Centre” could be sited in South Lebanon. The port of Tyre would be most appropriate. It is easily accessible from the nesting beaches in El Aabbassiye, the Tyre Coast Reserve and El Mansouri and also from further north – Saida, Sarafand and even Beirut. The centre could be used for treating and rehabilitating injured turtles.

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6.

CONCLUSION

During the 2005 monitoring period in Lebanon, a number of key objectives were achieved: Most importantly, two employees of the MedWetCoast project were trained in the internationally recognised survey and conservation techniques. This is a vital step in the process of capacity building and a step towards sustainability, when MEDASSET will no longer be required for monitoring as this will be carried out by local researchers independently. Furthermore, a number of ongoing public awareness activities took place throughout the course of the season. These included night patrol excursions with visiting tourists, presentations to visitors and local residents on public beaches during the day, monitoring surveys with scout groups, introductory talks on the theme of sea turtle biology and public displays at local events. Regular meetings were held with members of the local community; including the town municipality, the fishermen’s syndicate, local non-governmental groups, beach kiosk managers and hotel owners.

It has become apparent to all involved, that sea turtle conservation in Tyre cannot be achieved without cooperation from a variety of local groups or extensive governmental support. There are a number of possible courses of action. If not applied all together, these will have a minimal impact. Instead, a coordinated effort would be more effective.

If those working for the conservation of sea turtles work in parallel with all stakeholders on a number of important issues, much more can be achieved. By applying this interdisciplinary approach, it will be possible for social boundaries to be overcome, economic issues resolved and an understanding of complex marine ecosystem processes achieved.

In order to understand trends in population status there is a need to continue monitoring sea turtles nesting in Lebanon.

South Lebanon is badly in need of conservation investment, which is evident from the lack of basic infrastructure. In terms of managing the environment in a sustainable manner, the south of Lebanon is in need of financial assistance while the population needs to be given some kind of incentive. The future of sea turtle conservation in Lebanon mirrors this trend.

Nesting beach data collection must continue as future conservation and management plans rely upon this data to influence local authorities, municipalities and developers. It is crucial for the future of sea turtles in Lebanon that development is pursued with sensitivity to the beach ecosystem. Developers stand to benefit the most from protected beaches; as their key asset – beautiful surroundings, will always attract customers (St John et al, 2004). Environmental Impact Assessment studies offer a useful way of quantifying the potential outcomes of all planned activities, before permission to proceed is given. It is crucial that priority is given to protecting these critical nesting areas that so far have not been developed.

Fortunately, Lebanon’s public awareness of the plight of the sea turtles has been enhanced through mainstream press articles, television documentaries and presentations made to students from the University of Beirut. However, it would seem that a broader national public awareness campaign about sea turtles and the wider threats posed to biodiversity and the environment is needed.

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It is important to remember that South Lebanon is under considerable socio-economic strain. Conservation is not a priority in an area of such severe poverty. Any future conservation success will be linked to peoples’ livelihoods and the education of future generations. There is a strong need to enhance national cooperation by involving governmental and non-governmental bodies, environmental and volunteer groups. The best strategy would appear to be, giving full support to existing international and regional agreements and conventions to ensure that turtles at all of their life stages are protected.

This should be applied throughout the region, whilst improving linkages between all communities, researchers, universities and NGOs involved in turtle conservation around the Mediterranean Sea.

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7.

REFERENCES

Aureggi, M., C. Rizk and L. Venizelos (2005) Survey on sea turtle nesting activity South Lebanon, 2004. Joint report of (in alphabetical order) MEDASSET and MEDWESTCOAST. 35pp. www.medasset.org Carr, A. (1987) New Perspectives on Pelagic Stage of Sea Turtle Development.

Conservation Biology 1(2): 103-121 Demetropoulos, A. (2000) Impact of tourism development on marine turtle nesting: strategies and actions to minimise impact. Council of Europe, Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, T-PVS (2000) 41, 38pp.

Demirayak, F., R. Sadek, S. Hraoui-Bloquet and M. Khalil (2002) Marine turtle nesting activity assessment on the Lebanon coast. Phase 1: Survey to identify nesting sites and fishery interaction. Joint Project of (in alphabetical order) MEDASSET, Ministry of the Environment in Lebanon, RAC/SPA (MAP-UNEP), 63 pp.

Gerosa G. and M. Aureggi. (2001a). Sea Turtle Handling Guidebook for Fishermen.

UNEP/MAP RAC/SPA, Tunis Gerosa G. and M. Aureggi. (2001b). Sea Turtle Handling Guidebook for Fishermen Teaching Book. UNEP/MAP RAC/SPA, Tunis.

Gerosa, G. and P. Casale (1999) Interaction of Marine Turtles with Fisheries in the Mediterranean. UNEP Mediterranean Action Plan (MAP) Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas (RAC/SPA), Tunis.

IUCN (2004) 2004 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. <www.redlist.org>.

Downloaded on 01 November 2005.

Khalil, M., Syed, H., Aureggi, M. and Venizelos, L. (in press) Marine Turtle nesting at El Monsouri, South Lebanon. In, Proceedings of the Second Mediterranean Conference on Marine Turtles. Antalya, Turkey 4-7 May 2005.

Kasparek, M.B., B.J. Godley and A.C. Broderick (2001) Nesting of the Green Turtle, Chelonia mydas, in the Mediterranean Sea: a review of status and conservation needs.

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Kasparek, M. (2004) The Mediterranean Coast of Lebanon: Habitat for endangered fauna and flora. Joint effort by the MSC Project funded by the EU, the MEDWETCOAST Project funded by the French GEF, and MEDASSET. 35pp Laurent, L. (1998) Review and analysis of the available knowledge of marine turtle nesting and population dynamics in the Mediterranean. UNEP (OCA) MED WG. 145/Inf 3, Regional Activity Centre for Specially Protected Areas RAC/SPA, Tunis, 28pp.

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Lohmann K.J., B.E. Witherington, C.M.F. Lohmann and M. Salmon. (1997) Orientation, Navigation and Natal Beach Homing in Sea Turtles. In, Lutz, P.L. and J.A. Musick (eds).

The Biology of Sea Turtles. CRC Press. pp. 107-136 Lutz, P.L. and J.A. Musick (eds) (1997) The Biology of Sea Turtles. CRC Press. 432 pp.

Margaritoulis, D., Argano, R., Baran, I., Bentivegna, F., Bradai, M.N., Caminas, J.A., Casale, P., De Metrio, G., Demetropoulus, A., Gerosa, G., Godley, B.J., Haddoud, D.A., Houghton, J., Laurent, L., and Lazar, B. (2003) Loggerhead turtles in the Mediterranean Sea: present knowledge and conservation perspectives. In, A.B. Bolten, B.E. Witherington (eds). Loggerhead Marine turtles. Smithsonian Institution Press, Washington D.C., pp175-198 MEDASSET (2005) Report on Green Turtle (Chelonia Mydas) conservation monitoring in Kazanli (Turkey). Prepared by Dr. Max Kasparek.. Council of Europe, Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats, T-PVS (2005), 10pp.

Newbury, N., M. Khalil and L. Venizelos (2002) Population status and conservation of marine turtles at El-Mansouri, Lebanon. Zoology in the Middle East 27: 47-60.

Miller J.D. (1997) Reproduction in Sea Turtles. In, Lutz, P.L. and J.A. Musick (eds). The Biology of Sea Turtles. CRC Press. pp. 51-82 Rees, A.F., A. Saad and M. Jony. (in press) Discovery of a “major” new nesting area in Syria for the critically endangered Mediterranean Green Turtle. In, Proceedings of the 25th Annual Symposium on sea turtle biology and conservation. 16-22 January 2005, Savannah, USA. Spotila J. R. (2004) Sea Turtles. A complete Guide to their biology, behaviour and conservation. The Johns Hopkins University Press, Baltimore and London, 227pp.

St John, F., Khalil, M. and Venizelos, L. (2004). Marine turtle nesting in South Lebanon 2003. Project by MEDASSET. 18pp. www.medasset.org (UNEPMAP) RAC/SPA (1999) Revised Action Plan for the Conservation of Marine Turtles. In, Report of the 11th Ordinary Meeting of the Contracting Parties to the Convention for the Protection of the Mediterranean Sea Against Pollution and its protocols UNEP(OCA)/MED IG 12/9. Annex IV, Appendix VIII 51pp.

Venizelos, L. and M. Smith (1998) The impact of “small garbage” on the marine environment with emphasis on the Mediterranean marine turtle population. Testudo, the Journal of the British Chelonia Group 4(4):41-49 Witherington, B.E. and R.E. Martin (1996) Understanding, assessing and resolving lightpollution problems on sea turtle nesting beaches, Florida Marine Research Institute Technical Report TR-2.

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8.

PHOTO GALLERY

View from Tyre Coast Conservation Zone Rachidieh Palestinian Settlement in the foreground and Tyre City in the distance

Litter, debris and a dead cow carcass on El Aabbassiye beach

The head of a loggerhead turtle on El Aabbassiye beach 36

Dead loggerhead turtle found on Tyre public beach amongst piles of rubbish

A loggerhead nest, poached by dogs on El Aabbassiye

Fishermen from the survey 37

Hatchlings emerging from a nest on El Aabbassiye

Protecting nests on El Aabbassiye

The wire meshing used to protect nests

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HC and Hamoudie returning from early morning survey

Discussing sea turtle conservation with scouts

Human refuse scattered across the nesting beach at El Aabbassiye

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