The Sea Turtles of Sabah

Marine geography

The transboundary conservation zone

Sabah sits at the centre of marine turtle activity in Southeast Asia. The geography creates the right conditions for them. The deep oceanic currents hitting the islands generate nutrient upwellings that sustain dense algal growth and sponges. The sandy island beaches provide the gradient and temperature required for their eggs to incubate.

Because marine turtles are highly migratory, they require international cooperation. This transboundary zone joins 3 islands in Sabah with 6 in the Philippines. It coordinates conservation strategies and anti-poaching enforcement across the maritime border.

The 2 species

The green turtle is listed globally as Endangered. It is a large herbivore that feeds on seagrasses and algae. The hawksbill turtle is smaller and is listed as Critically Endangered. By eating sponges the hawksbill plays a vital role in keeping the reef healthy.

Where they nest

Nesting occurs year-round across the region. The green turtles experience a heavy seasonal peak between July and October. The hawksbills concentrate their nesting heavily within the Turtle Islands Park. Their peak activity runs from February to April; the Sabah wildlife calendar shows the rest of the year.

Places to see them

Sipadan Island

Dive among pelagic schools and resident sea turtles.

Mabul Island

Explore sloping sandy reefs and submerged artificial structures.

Lankayan Island

Travel into the Sulu Sea to an independent hatchery.