As we mentioned, this is a rare occurrence since olive ridleys normally nest on other beaches. Nonetheless, just like last week’s event in Playa Potrero, back in 2022 someone reported tiny turtles emerging from the sand at Playa Danta. Our Environmental Director confirmed the sighting with his team and, together with the DCL office, they witnessed the hatchlings make their way safely across the sand and into the water.
Yesterday’s edition The Daily about the olive ridley hatchlings sparked a memory in Town of something very similar that happened a few years ago.
The photos from that day are incredibly sweet, and we wanted to share them so the everyone can revisit a moment out of the ordinary, that felt truly special and unique in Playa Danta.
Events like last week’s hatchlings in Playa Potrero, or the one from 2022 in Playa Danta, can happen for several reasons. Solitary nesting is uncommon, but not impossible. Some females simply choose less typical spots, especially first time nesters. Variations in currents, tides or beach conditions can also influence where a turtle decides to lay her eggs.
So while seeing hatchlings in places like Playa Potrero or Playa Danta is unusual, it is not impossible. Both beaches are part of the broader Pacific coastline these turtles travel, and every once in a while they offer small surprises.