The status of marine turtles in Angola, West Africa, is poorly known, and
therefore during 2000–2006 a combination of both dedicated and
opportunistic beach and at-sea turtle surveys were carried out, and interviews
conducted with fishing communities and at markets. Green Chelonia mydas, olive ridley Lepidochelys olivacea, leatherback Dermochelys coriacea and loggerhead turtles Caretta caretta were recorded, and nesting of the
first three species confirmed during September–March (peaking
November–December). Green turtles nested mainly in the south,
leatherback turtles in north and central Angola, and olive ridley turtle nesting
was widespread. Olive ridley turtle nest density at Palmeirinhas averaged 32
nests km−1. At-sea surveys produced 298 turtle records,
with peak occurrence during August. Significant anthropogenic-related mortality
(including exploitation of meat and eggs and fishing bycatch) was recorded, in
addition to natural predation and other threats. Maintenance of the long-term
sustainability of these turtle populations should focus on the involvement of
fishing communities and increasing awareness throughout Angola.